Immobility Decisions and Wellbeing: The Younger Stayers in Hong Kong

Dr. Esther Cho

Background: The study focuses on the phenomenon of (im)mobility, particularly in the context of recent emigration waves in Hong Kong among the younger generation. Previous studies have focused primarily on migration decisions, often neglecting the perspectives of those who choose to stay. This research aims to understand how young people in Hong Kong decide to remain and how they perceive their wellbeing, which is essential for informing policies to retain younger residents and improve their lives.

Research Questions:

    What is the analytical framework for immobility decisions of younger stayers in Hong Kong?

    What typology of younger stayers in Hong Kong can be identified based on their immobility decisions?

    How do younger stayers fare in terms of economic security, education, social relationships, health, civic and social engagement, psychological wellbeing, and life satisfaction?

    What preliminary suggestions can be made for retaining younger people and enhancing their wellbeing?

Methods: A mixed-method approach will be used, combining individual interviews, focus group discussions, and a survey.

    Interviews: 25 younger adults (aged 18-39) who plan to stay in Hong Kong will participate in semi-structured interviews about their immobility decisions and perceptions of wellbeing.

    Focus Groups: 30 additional younger adults will join focus groups to discuss their views similarly to the interviews.

    Survey: 1,066 younger stayers will be recruited via random sampling to complete an online survey on their immobility decisions and wellbeing.

    Analysis: Thematic analyses will be used for qualitative data, while cluster analysis and other multivariate analyses will examine quantitative data.