LAUSR

The present study aimed to investigate the association between online parent-child communication and left-behind children’s adaptation as well as the underlying mechanisms – the mediating role of parent-child relationship and the moderating role of gratitude. A sample of 756 left-behind children (53.94% boys, M age  = 14.42) in central China was recruited to complete measures on online parent-child communication, parent-child relationship, gratitude, and subjective well-being. Results showed that online parent-child communication was positively associated with left-behind children’s subjective well-being, and parent-child relationship could mediate this relationship. Moreover, both the direct effect of online parent-child communication on left-behind children’ subjective well-being and the mediating effect of parent-child relationship were moderated by gratitude, they were stronger among individuals with higher gratitude. This study not only deepens our understanding on left-behind children’ development and adaptation in current information society, but also provides guidance for the intervention and improvement of their adaptation.