Intergenerational Solidarity As Families Change Over Time

Intergenerational Solidarity. As families change through time, their relationships change as well (see the 6 relationship dimensions in Figure 9.10).

Intergenerational families are dynamic entities that reflect the evolving nature of societal, cultural, and individual influences over time. The six relationship dimensions outlined in Figure 9.10—affinity, agreement, authoritative direction, shared activities, shared households, and hierarchical power—provide a comprehensive framework to analyze how these relationships adapt or remain consistent across generations. I will exemplify this discussion through the example of a family I know, consisting of grandparents, parents, and grandchildren, which has experienced notable shifts and continuities in these dimensions.

Historically, the relationship dimension of hierarchical power has been prominent in this family, with grandparents and parents holding primary authority over household decisions and daily routines. This aligns with traditional familial norms emphasizing respect for elders and authority. Over time, however, there has been a marked decrease in hierarchical dominance, with younger family members increasingly participating in decision-making processes, reflecting a shift towards more egalitarian and collaborative relationships. This transition is especially evident among the grandchildren, who now have a voice in family matters, and among the parents, who foster open communication rather than authoritative directives.

Shared activities have historically been a vital component of family cohesion, with regular family meals, religious observances, and communal celebrations reinforcing bonds. Despite societal changes, these shared activities have persisted, but their frequency and nature have evolved. For example, modern technology has introduced virtual family gatherings, maintaining shared experiences even when physical proximity is lacking. Similarly, shared households—once quite common—have declined as individuals pursue personal independence, yet multi-generational living arrangements still occur in some contexts, allowing for continued intergenerational contact and support.

The dimension of affinity or emotional closeness has been a constant throughout history, serving as a foundational element that sustains family bonds amidst changing structures. Agreement on values, beliefs, and life goals has also demonstrated both continuity and change, often solidifying during early generations and gradually adapting to contemporary societal norms among younger members.

Research indicates that promoting openness, fostering mutual respect, and maintaining shared activities are crucial for sustaining optimal intergenerational ties. Family communication patterns that enhance understanding and emotional support are instrumental, especially in periods of societal change. Emphasizing shared goals and collaborative decision-making can mitigate conflicts while strengthening bonds (Silverstein & Bengtson, 1997). Furthermore, adopting flexible roles and acknowledging individual life circumstances can help accommodate generational differences, reducing tensions and reinforcing a cohesive family identity (Gans, Silverstein, & Bengtson, 2009).

In conclusion, intergenerational family relationships are subject to both continuity and change across the six identified dimensions. Fostering open communication, shared activities, and mutual respect are essential strategies to promote family solidarity and resilience in the face of social change. As families evolve, so must their approaches to maintaining meaningful connections to support the well-being of all generations involved.

References

• Gans, D., Silverstein, M., & Bengtson, V. L. (2009). Intergenerational relations and the development of family cohesion. Journal of Family Psychology, 23(3), 480–488.
• Silverstein, M., & Bengtson, V. L. (1997). Intergenerational solidarity and the structure of emotional bonds in families. Research on Aging, 19(4), 430–447.