Infinite Recursion with Jackson JSON and Hibernate JPA issue

java

json-engineering

hibernate

serialization

byNikita Barsukov·Feb 23, 2025

Break the Jackson infinite recursion by strategically using @JsonManagedReference/@JsonBackReference annotations to break the entity relationships cycle or employ @JsonIdentityInfo to serialize entities with back-references as IDs. For a quick fix, you can unleash the power of @JsonIgnore on the recursive side. Unbox the solution:

@Entity
class Parent {
    @OneToMany(mappedBy = "parent")
    @JsonManagedReference   // The "forward" part of the relationship
    private Set<Child> children;  // "Listener... are you my child?" says the Parent
}

@Entity
class Child {
    @ManyToOne
    @JsonBackReference    // The "backward" part of the relationship
    private Parent parent;  // "No, you are my parent!" responds the Child
}

For a comprehensive solution, flex @JsonIdentityInfo muscles:

@Entity
@JsonIdentityInfo(generator = ObjectIdGenerators.PropertyGenerator.class, property = "id")
class EntityWithBidirectionalRelation {
    @ManyToOne
    private OtherEntity other;  // It's complicated, isn't it?
}

With these strategies, ensure serialization without loops entering an endless recursion.

Diving deeper: Comprehensive solutions

Diverse scenarios need different weapons. Let's gear up!

Annotations: Your savior

When @JsonManagedReference and @JsonBackReference aren't enough, you may wish to ignore certain fields during serialization. That's when @JsonIgnoreProperties(value = {"fieldName"}) enters the chat. It targets specific fields to exclude, perfect for when source code isn't in your control.

The power of mixins

For more advanced situations, consider the Jackson MixIn annotations. Like putting a disguise on a class, mixins allow you to attach annotations without changing their source code. Break up with third-party code modifications!

Handling Object Identity in Jackson

The @JsonIdentityInfo annotation saves Jackson from an identity crisis! It helps Jackson remember the serialized object, avoiding infinite circular references. Substituting @JsonManagedReference and @JsonBackReference, it takes the center stage in complex object graphs or multiple back-references.

Jackson's special module

The jackson-datatype-hibernate module comes to the rescue when entities are fetched lazily or Hibernate needs proxy handling. It ensures that only initialized properties are serialized and fights off the evil LazyInitializationException.

Customization: Be in control

Sometimes, off-the-shelf solutions don't cut it. Let's go custom.

Handcrafting serializers and deserializers

Craft smart with custom serializer/deserializer when standard solutions can't translate your specific serialization logic. It empowers you to control the serialization and deserialization with precision.

Scrutinizing `@JsonIgnoreProperties`

Before you lean on @JsonIgnoreProperties, ensure you understand the implications on your APIs and data integrity. Keeping necessary fields is crucial for complete data delivery.

Debug with firebug or alike

Debugging tools like Firebug shed light on the JSON output and AJAX requests to diagnose recursive issues. Logging tools can be your most trusted allies when tracing infinite recursion.

explain-codes / Java / Infinite Recursion with Jackson JSON and Hibernate JPA issue

Linked

Ignoring new fields on JSON objects using Jackson



Different names of JSON property during serialization and deserialization



How can I tell jackson to ignore a property for which I don't have control over the source code?



Jackson: how to prevent field serialization



Jackson with JSON: Unrecognized field, not marked as ignorable

