Intergenerational Interaction Research Articles

UNDERSTANDING INTERGENERATIONALITY: THEORIES, REFLECTIONS, AND EXPERIENCES

Research into different aspects of intergenerationalities continues to develop at a considerable pace for individuals, communities, and society more generally. A number of programs and practices for older people are organized around the presumed benefits of intergenerational interaction between younger and older people, with intergenerational programming operating as a taken-for-granted practice. However, the merits of this approach, the models that inform practice, and the learning that takes place between older and younger people, remain under-theorized. This poster reviews and discusses dominant theoretical frameworks including reflections and experiences from intergenerational learning programs in Canada (e.g. Co-Housing). It documents how the field of intergenerationality is conceptualized and executed in the realms of theory and practice; how models retain age and stage-based assumptions, including the polarizing discourses of ‘decline’ and ‘activity’; and discusses the implications for methodology, application, and outcome measures. By understanding the underlying assumptions utilized in the field of intergenerational learning, this poster makes an important contribution to the theoretical foundations, methods, and approaches, that are required to build more appropriate intergenerational landscapes.

Features of the intergenerational transmission of family values

The article deals with the problem of intra-family intergenerational values transmission and, first of all, reproductive attitudes, the need for children, the values of family and child life. It emphasizes the importance of increasing the reproductive attitudes in the population to overcome the demographic crisis in modern Russia and the world as a whole. The complexity of correctly measuring value orientations and reproductive attitudes, the significant difference between the declared values and real reproductive behavior is noted.To study and predict the development of value orientations of the population, reproductive attitudes characteristic of modern youth representatives, it is necessary to study the process of intergenerational values transmission. Moreover, taking into account that the basic values of a family-children lifestyle are formed within the primary intra-family socialization, it is necessary to study the process of intra-family values transmission from the generation of parents and grandparents to children.The paper presents analysis results of three waves of the study devoted to family-children life performed in 2014–2016, based on a total base of 4500 respondents’ responses. Using correlation and multivariate analysis of variance for paired samples, it is shown that family values of parents are not fully transmitted to children, and the distortion occurs not only at the stage of acceptance of the transmitted values, but also at the level of primary communication. For respondents of different socio-demographic status, representing families with different numbers of children, the decline in the significance of the family is equally characteristic when they transfer the values to their children. In the light of this pattern, the task of working with families and young people becomes important, aimed at raising the status of the family and strengthening intergenerational intra-family interaction.

Intergenerational transmissions and sharing of musical taste practices

ABSTRACTThis study explores the lived dimensions of musical taste emerging from interactions over the life-course within the nuclear family. We address this subject using intergenerational transmission as a conceptual frame of reference simultaneously highlighting the dynamic and situated nature of musical taste, thus promoting a pragmatic approach. Our aim is to identify the moments, the contents, the goals and the processes linked to intergenerational transmissions. Interpreting the data from 18 parent-young adult dyads reveals: a parental mark imprinted mainly through impregnation; age and generation structuring musical taste (more at the level of listening devices); a low level of parental malleability; heterogeneous intergenerational interactions within the nuclear family, and the transmission of ‘old devices’. Finally, in line with practice theory, we show that the processes of intergenerational transmission with different agents involved can only happen with the support of objects, ‘doings’ performed with objects, and meanings associated with objects.

‘Thousands in gold in a family count far less than a skill one possesses’: socializing cultural competence in Chinese heritage language learning

ABSTRACTThis paper examines the ways in which authentic conversation provides a sociocultural resource for developing the cultural competence of learners of Chinese as a heritage language in Australia. It draws upon language socialization as a theoretical framework to study the interconnected processes of linguistic and cultural learning in interactional discourse practices through an intergenerational interaction model. In this model, local community resources were effectively utilized when older speakers of Chinese as their first language and English Chinese heritage learners were paired and conducted naturalistic conversations. Building on discourse analysis of the linguistic exchange between three pairs of interactants, we illustrate how the older speakers, that is, expert users, socialize the novice learners of Chinese into acquiring Chinese cultural knowledge through the related lexical items. Our analysis shows that this interaction model proves beneficial for developing socially and culturally competent members within minority communities.

Editors’ Introduction

> “Through this book, I imagine the possibility that later generations of media feminists might not have to do this work again: putting a stop, for a while at least, to this particular feminist ‘re’-cycle.” > > —Alexandra Juhasz, Women of Vision , 20011 > “Theories and concepts help order history, but critically informed production practice, an orientation of learning, thinking, and doing might move us out of these painful historical reveries.” > > —Angela J. Aguayo, Documentary Resistance , 20192 alexandra juhasz: In October 2017 I received …

THE CULTURE OF A GENERATIONAL UNITY: THE SOCIAL-CULTURAL APPROACH

The theoretical basis for the analysis of generations’ culture is substantiated based on the methodology of the social-cultural approach. The generational culture is presented as a unity, which study, on the one hand, reveals culture as a form of formation and existence of norms and rules applied by social organization of people’s life; on the other, discloses institutional and non-institutional aspects of the generational reality. The assumption is made that institutionalization, which means fixation of newly changed socio-cultural dimensions, is a process promoting the formation of aggregated generative actors, and a generational institution means the transformation of individuals’ modern practices into habits, the organizational principles of interactions, behavioural limitations and the forms of intergenerational relations. The model of the culture of a generational unity is theoretically substantiated. The possible cultural life parameters, specific for a generation, are determined and correlated with the public, social-psychological, social-cultural foundations. The basic layer is a group of socio-cultural characteristics of a generational unity; here, subgroups of the features that are flexible to time requirements, but stable as for their manifestations in the past and modern generations are determined as well as their cultural-historical, social and cultural-figurative (ethnic) parameters. The opposite, public, parameters of generational unity features are revealed also. They determine the emotional background, the peculiarities of social space perception, typical language manifestations and external social and individual attributes of generations. The idea is argued that the analysis and determination of the formation, manifestations and realization of social-psychological characteristics of the generational unity allow us to define three groups of generational parameters, namely: (1) social-cultural parameters as the basic fundamental culture; (2) social-psychological parameters, manifested in the attitudes, representations, goals of social interactions and (3) public parameters, implementing a generation in social-cultural inter-generational interactions. The main problematic channels of generational existence in society are outlined, these channels are understood as social-historical changes of meanings characteristic for a generation that take place under influences of external social-cultural and internal generational integrative factors. The first channel, revealing social-cultural problems of generation formation, is continuous changes in existential conditions that lead the actors to reorganize forms of their inter-generational interactions. The second public channel, through which a generation passes, is formation of cultural artefacts of the generational time and space. These cultural artefacts are interpretive embodiments in actual conditions of all-time cultural forms, and that are prerequisites for the construction of socio-cultural dimensions of the era. The third channel of possible generational social-cultural problems means stable and newly formed ideas about effective forms of intercultural interactions, which objective formation is conditioned by the natural processes of tradition preservation and updating according to the requirements of time. During the further research, the above views for research on the culture of a generational unity within the social-cultural approach will be verified as for their content as well as beyond the limits of the psychology of social-cultural interactions. &nbsp

100 The Factors Which Impact Non-Familial Intergenerational Interaction within Public Space: An Integrative Review

Abstract Background Intergenerational interaction is the communication which occurs between people from two or more generations and known benefits include improved psychological wellbeing and decreased social isolation. Intergenerational programs therefore have the potential to decrease risk of loneliness for older people. Public spaces are accessible and open for use to all people, irrespective of age or ability, and are therefore an important environment to consider for intergenerational interaction development. The aim of this review was to identify factors which impact non-familial intergenerational interaction within public spaces. Methods An integrative review of qualitative and quantitative peer reviewed literature was completed, from inception through January 2019. Academic Search Complete, Avery Index to Architectural Periodicals, CINAHL, Science Direct, SCOPUS, Social Sciences Citation Index and Web of Science were searched. The search yielded 488 articles, 16 of which were included. Research studies were critically appraised using the Crowe Critical Appraisal Tool and key data were extracted and synthesised to identify the factors which impact non-familial intergenerational interactions in public spaces, through a method of constant comparison analysis. Results Three key themes were identified: ‘Comparing naturally occurring non-familial intergenerational interactions with structured intergenerational programs’; ‘Barriers to non-familial intergenerational interactions in public spaces’ and ‘Successful non-familial intergenerational interaction achieved through shared activity’. Conclusion The findings highlighted that structured intergenerational programs have a greater chance of facilitating positive intergenerational interaction, as the presence of a group facilitator directly enabled non-familial intergenerational interactions. Successful non-familial intergenerational interactions were achieved through shared experiences of fun and meaningful activities. Barriers to non-familial intergenerational interaction in public space included lack of opportunities, negative attitudes held of different generations, age stereotypes and age segregation. Older people have the potential to benefit most from non-familial intergenerational interaction, due to increased risk of loneliness and high participation rates in non-familial intergenerational interactions in public spaces.

Fostering Social Sustainability through Intergenerational Engagement in Australian Neighborhood Parks

Social sustainability includes aspects of equity and is associated with two of the United Nations Sustainable Development goals focused on promoting good health and well-being for all ages. Yet, this pillar of sustainability is considered the least understood, as compared to economic and environmental components. To address this, our study focused on intergenerational engagement within residential neighborhood parks to foster social sustainability and encourage healthy and active living. This study included an intercept survey with open-ended questions of 386 adult park users within 12 parks in South-East Queensland, one of Australia’s fastest-growing areas. Approximately two-thirds (68%) of adult participants visited the park with one or more children, primarily to use the playground. Further thematic analysis shows that intergenerational interactions predominantly include adults playing with or teaching children. However, intergenerational interactions were limited in numerous situations, such as when adults accompany older children. This paper concludes with a discussion on potential ways to increase intergenerational interactions in parks to promote health and well-being for all ages, thus increasing social sustainability within residential developments.

Comparing the efficacy of yoga exercise and intergenerational interaction program on mental health of elderly

Comparing the efficacy of yoga exercise and intergenerational interaction program on mental health of elderly

Dilemmas of an Aging Society: Family and State Responsibilities for Intergenerational Care in Taiwan

In an aging society with a declining birthrate, there are more and more elderly to care for and fewer adult children to provide them care; these adult children, and the state, are forced to weigh the costs of eldercare against the cost of child care. In Taiwan, these dilemmas may be particularly acute, given the persistence of Confucian norms of filial piety and the extended family structures. In this study, we examine the attitudes of Taiwanese people toward the relative responsibilities of both adult children and the welfare state for eldercare and child care. Data were taken from the Taiwan Social Change Survey in 2011. Using latent class analysis to develop a typology of attitudes toward intergenerational care responsibilities, we found four types: (a) Family cares for elders and children, (b) family cares mainly for children, (c) cooperation between family and government, (d) government cares for the elderly. Findings show that an individual’s attitudes toward welfare state policies are significantly related to both self-interest and sociocultural norms as well as intergenerational family interactions. In Taiwan, filial norms and the quality of family interaction significantly influence attitudes toward the division of intergenerational care responsibilities.

Fear of Incompetence in Intergenerational Relationships with a Family Member with Dementia

ABSTRACTParticularly in intergenerational relationships, family members feel they lack the knowledge and skills necessary for successful interaction with their loved ones with dementia, which leads to fear of incompetence. We examined the antecedents and outcomes of fear of incompetence, defined as the fear of being unable to interact, communicate, or take care of a close family member with dementia. Ninety-two participants completed a questionnaire about a family member with dementia. Fear of incompetence was predicted by severity of dementia symptoms and predicted increased negative stereotyping and decreased desired sensory interaction. We offered recommendations for designing effective intergenerational interaction strategies.

A Theoretical Model of Intergenerational Tutoring

ABSTRACTThis paper presents a psychological model of intergenerational tutoring, which applies to both helpers and those who are helped. It shows how fully formed intergenerational tutoring can operate, and can thus identify gaps. These gaps can be addressed and some filled by learning partners, perhaps with help from professionals or more experienced partners. Sixteen elements are identified, the first two in sequence, then five with equal weight, then nine in sequence. The model is a template for monitoring intergenerational interactions as they are happening. It also forms a tool for self-assessment/peer assessment. Additionally, it may help in designing intergenerational tutoring.

Effects of “Environmental Chatter” about Age and Aging on Middle-Aged and Older Adults’ Communication and Perceptions of Aging Efficacy

Grounded in the communicative ecology model of successful aging (CEMSA), this study examined how social messages individuals encounter about age predicted efficacy regarding aging. Data from N = 283 middle-aged and older American adults were analyzed via path analyses. Explicit messages about aging, the presence of positive and negative role models for aging, and the degree to which intergenerational interaction was experienced as accommodative and nonaccommodative predicted how participants themselves communicated about aging. Having positive role models and quality of intergenerational interaction also predicted self-reports of efficacy related to aging.

A Study on the Layout and Program of Community Facilities in Apartment Housing for the Promotion of Intergenerational Interaction

A Study on the Layout and Program of Community Facilities in Apartment Housing for the Promotion of Intergenerational Interaction

Contradictory and consistent views on designing an inclusive community-based centre for older people: a mixed-methods study of different age groups in China

AbstractThe Chinese government encourages the promotion of community-based older people centres as a way to use space rationally, improve social inclusion and support older residents’ everyday lives. This exploratory study is the first to examine in depth the contradictory and consistent attitudes and suggestions of residents of different age groups for the design of an inclusive community-based centre for older and younger people in China. An integrative mixed-methods approach was used. In the quantitative phase, 270 older adults (⩾60 years) and 250 younger adults (<60 years) from Harbin were asked to complete questionnaires (older adults’ response rate = 87.0%; younger adults’ response rate = 87.2%). In the qualitative phase, seven focus group discussions (four groups of older adults, three groups of younger adults) were conducted. The findings indicate that older adults have a higher acceptance level of inclusive design and prefer to share spaces to improve intergenerational interactions than younger adults. Residents of all ages are more likely to share functional spaces related to health services, living services and physical exercise. Moreover, the study reveals some design suggestions: the location of the centre should be away from the residential area and integrated into a public community building; comprehensive services should be provided to older people and be accessible to the whole family; design should be barrier-free, and the climate and nearby spaces should be considered.

Noho Taiao: reclaiming Māori science with young people.

Connections and belonging to ancestral lands are strongly and consistently argued as fundamental to Māori education, health and wellbeing. When our connections with and access to health-promoting places of belonging are damaged, we lose more than component parts of wellbeing. An entire cultural infrastructure integral to identity, community, spirituality, sustainability and even material sustenance is eroded, compromising health, wellbeing and vitality. Young people in rural areas are often seen as missing out on the amenities and attractions available in cities, but are assumed to have compensatory access to and positive relationships with 'nature'. For multiple reasons, many arising from colonial legacies, this is often not so for young Māori and there are initiatives underway that seek to reconnect them with customary environments. Place-based learning approaches that use local environments and ecosystems as living laboratories, reimagining the way students engage with knowledge, science and understandings of the natural world can be valuable in this respect. Te Rārawa Noho Taiao projects in the Far North of Aotearoa have been operating for nearly a decade, using indigenous pedagogy that promotes Māori science, science leadership, and learning, applying them in ways that produce a range of health and wellbeing benefits. These include enhanced educational engagement, strengthened capabilities, increased participation/belonging, stronger connections, constructive peer processes and positive intergenerational interactions, all based in Māori values and praxis. Such elements are widely recognised in health-promoting frameworks as highly implicated in the creation and maintenance of health and wellbeing for individuals, communities and populations. In this paper, we use interviews with organisers and teachers of these Noho Taiao and a survey of student participants, to explore the educational and health promotion effects.

The impact of intergenerational programs on social capital in Japan: a randomized population-based cross-sectional study

BackgroundOver the last several decades, social isolation and loneliness among older adults have posed an increasingly urgent challenge due to the rapidly aging population in Japan. To remedy the situation, many communities have introduced intergenerational programs. However, few studies have investigated the benefits of social capital across generations as a result of intergenerational interaction between children and older generations. Therefore, we aim to ascertain the degree to which intergenerational programs that take root in a community will affect the social capital of all generations in the community.MethodsWe focus our research on one specific program, REPRINTS, an intergenerational health promotion program for older adults that has been active for over 10 years in Tama Ward, Kawasaki City, Kanagawa Prefecture. We conducted a population-based cross-sectional study of residents between the ages of 20 and 84 years who were randomly selected from the basic resident register. Approximately 2500 residents were selected, of which 978 responded; data from 891 respondents were analyzed.ResultsHierarchical linear modeling suggests that the duration of programs was a significant community-level indicator of neighborhood trust. At the individual level, people between 30 and 59 years of age and people over 60 years of age have more positive effects on neighborhood trust than do people between 20 and 39 years of age.ConclusionsThe ongoing intergenerational programs between older citizens and children can enforce neighborhood trust, thus strengthening a community’s intergenerational ties. The REPRINTS program has been developed through cooperation with local citizens, senior volunteers, and teachers from the community. Its collaborative nature ensures longevity and continuous growth in a community. It is challenging to create long-term intergenerational programs that take root in communities, making persistence and collaboration a crucial factor in fruitful intergenerational relationships. Overall, ongoing intergenerational program implementation associates with building social capital, thereby strengthening potential intergenerational ties and promote mutual support among local residents which will reduce or prevent social isolation among older.

Dynamics of Life Satisfaction Among Rural Elderly in China: The Role of Health Insurance Policies and Intergenerational Relationships

The pursuit of achieving Goal 3 of the 2030 United Nations agenda for Sustainable Development, “ensuring healthy lives, achieving universal health coverage and promoting wellbeing for all”, has been a cardinal concern of governments and policy makers. The rural–urban divide in China has resulted in equality of health care distribution. To address this anomaly, the government of China has put in place the New Cooperative Medical Scheme (NCMS). This intervention aims at ensuring the equitable distribution and affordability of health care in rural areas. Despite this measure, certain drawbacks in its implementation affect overall life satisfaction. Rural–urban migration resulting in age distribution gaps has also been generally identified by a plethora of literature to hamper intergenerational interaction, which is essential to overall life satisfaction especially for the elderly. However, little is known about the extent to which the NCMS, coupled with its drawbacks and intergenerational interaction, affect the overall life satisfaction of the rural elderly in China. Using an ordered response model, this study presents a thorough analysis on the life satisfaction of rural elderly making comparison across age groups and residence status sub-samples using a panel data from the two waves, 2011 and 2013, from China’s Health and Retirement Longitudinal Survey. The empirical results indicate that though the NCMS is indeed beneficial to promoting health and overall life satisfaction of rural elderly, there are some attendant limitations. We also find that intergenerational interaction in the form of frequent communication and financial assistance from children who fall within the non-cohabiting category promotes life satisfaction of the rural elderly. The degree of importance however varies across the aforementioned groups.

Revitalising language through music: a case study of music and culturally grounded pedagogy in two Kanien’ke:ha (Mohawk) language immersion programmes

ABSTRACTSince the 1990s scholars, teachers, and policy makers have debated over the importance of culturally grounded or culture-based education (CBE) approaches in primary and secondary programmes. For Indigenous communities, CBE methods are often regarded as decolonising tools that support linguistic and sociocultural revitalisation efforts. A majority of Indigenous educational projects have prioritised teaching language above other cultural components, such as music, which has largely been overlooked as a powerful tool due to the pervasive assumption that traditional musical practices rely on the language to survive. This article explores how cultural components have a symbiotic rather than a hierarchical relationship, focusing on the interdependence between language and music. Based on ethnographic fieldwork and observations with four Indigenous language immersion teachers, I argue that music is a linchpin pedagogical tool that promotes intergenerational interactions, builds social relationships, and facilitates the daily use of language in and outside the classroom.

Intergenerational interaction between older and younger people in creative tasks

Intergenerational interaction between older and younger people in creative tasks