Social Change and the Family Lives of Older Adults

Question 1

in Bengston’s article, what kind of theoretical approaches did he use?

Answer 1

1. life course approach
2. structural functionalism

Question 2

in Bengston’s article, what was Burgess’ hypothesis?

Answer 2

families and their functions changed from social institution to companionship and affection, modern families as unity of interacting personalities

Question 3

what does Bengston hypothesize in addition to Burgess’ hypothesis?

Answer 3

multigenerational ties are becoming more important and more diverse in structures and functions

Question 4

how did Bengston conceptualize intergenerational solidarity?

Answer 4

behavioural and emotional dimensions of interaction, cohesion, sentiment, and support between (grand)parents and (grand)children over course of long-term relationships

Question 5

how did Bengston operationalize intergenerational solidarity in his article?

Answer 5

1. affectual– sentiments and evaluations of members about their relationship with other members
2. associational– type and frequency of contact
3. consensual– agreement in opinions, values, beliefs, etc.
4. functional– giving and receiving of support
5. normative– expectations regarding obligations
6. structural– geographical proximity

Question 6

what are some contributors to LAT relationships?

Answer 6

women’s rights, economic growth, workplace participation, life expectancy, repartnering

Question 7

how should LATs be studied?

Answer 7

qualitative in social constructionist lens; interpretations and meanings of LATs to older adults