Intergenerational Relations Between Older Parents and Their Adult Children: Effects on Subjective Well-being

Abstract

In the near future, many western nations will be confronted with specific challenges regarding ageing populations and their physical and psychological well-being. Ageing parents might experience a greater need for intergenerational support and solidarity, especially in the context of migration. The acculturation process may, however, entail an increased intergenerational gap possibly leading to conflicts and ambivalences between parents and adult children. This might in turn diminish their well-being. Here, a cross-cultural comparison is envisaged between Luxemburgish and Portuguese triads of adult children and their older parents living in Luxembourg (N = 120). Participants will report on their mutual relationship quality and subjective well-being by using a standardized questionnaire. Similarities and differences in mutual expectations of family members as well as the effects of an intergenerational gap in ideas about intergenerational solidarity on relationship quality and on subjective well-being (SWB) will be examined. Results will be discussed regarding the relevance of intergenerational family relations for subjective well-being in the light of migration and ageing.