Author Information
Jiawen Zhou, Shanghai International Studies University, ChinaShiming Xu, Peking University HSBC Business School, China
Zaiyang Li, Shanghai International Studies University, China
Naiwen Zhang, Shanghai International Studies University, China
Yuanfei Zeng, Shanghai International Studies University, China
Abstract
Social connectivity depends on digital technologies, but in collectivist societies such as China, older adults experience a strong participation divide. Models that are based on individualistic assumptions, like the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), do not sufficiently explain adaptation behaviour based on relational ethics. This gap is filled through a current study, which investigates the importance of Confucian ethics, filial piety (Xiao), face (Mianzi), and harmony (Hexie) in establishing technology adaptation among older adults. We propose the Confucian SST-SOC Model of Technology Adaptation, integrating Socioemotional Selectivity Theory (SST) and Selection, Optimisation, and Compensation (SOC) theory with Confucian principles to reframe cognitive and affective appraisals. A mixed-methods study with 343 older Chinese social media users revealed through structural equation modelling (CFI = .96, RMSEA = .05) that culturally reframed appraisals predict four adaptation pathways: exploration to maximise benefits (EMSMB), exploitation to satisfy benefits (ESSMB), exploration to revert (ER), and avoidance (ASM). Thematic analysis of 287 open responses confirmed that behaviours are motivated by Xiao, Mianzi, and Hexie. Findings show technology adaptation operates as a culturally embedded ethical practice rather than mere technical acquisition. The study offers a theoretical framework to challenge universalist models and provides practical implications for culturally resonant gerontechnology design and policy.
Paper Information
Conference: AGen2026Stream: Aging and Gerontology
This paper is part of the AGen2026 Conference Proceedings (View)
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To cite this article:
Zhou J., Xu S., Li Z., Zhang N., & Zeng Y. (2026) The Confucian SST-SOC Model: Technology Adaptation as Ethical Performance Among Older Adults in China ISSN: 2432-4183 The Asian Conference on Aging & Gerontology 2026: Official Conference Proceedings (pp. 21-41) https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2432-4183.2026.3
To link to this article: https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2432-4183.2026.3
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