The Bonding-Binding of Grandchildren in Long-Term Care for Family Elder: Family Values in Northern Thailand

Abstract

The bonding-binding process is defined as an interpersonal interaction that occurs at birth. The attached construction of bonding-binding of grandchildren in long-term care for the family elderly is considered an important issue, leading to long-term care for the family elderly in the next generation. This study was to describe the attached construction of bonding-binding of grandchildren in long-term care for family elders within a specific sociocultural environment in Northern Thailand. From May to November 2018, data was collected using a participatory observation guideline, in-depth interviews, and content analysis. Three-generation family members who cared for the dependents and grandparents were among the twenty-eight participants. The bonding-binding of grandchildren living with grandparents who provide long-term care has been divided into four levels: Family-bonding was founded on the strong relationships within the family, social-bonding construction was affected by social norms, and religious-binding incorporated the positive reciprocity taught by religion. Grandchildren’s bonidng influcens the social and spiritual lives of family elders in designing future long-term care for the next generation.