Intergenerational Programming
Conclusion
Conclusive data reporting on the outcomes of intergenerational programs in the context of relationships within families is not yet available. However, a growing body of qualitative and quantitative information on intergenerational interactions between nonbiologically connected older and younger adults reports on universally positive behaviors that are evident in diverse intergenerational programs (Kuehne 1989; Penninx 1996; Larkin and Newman 2001). These behaviors seem also to be manifest in families whose members have experienced ongoing intergenerational interactions. These limited qualitative studies use anecdotal reports, interviews, surveys, and case studies that show the positive relationships being developed through nonbiological interactions in intergenerational programs that can also impact on the quality of relationships in families. With intergenerational programming being developed as a vehicle for positive social change in the larger community it will be important for researchers throughout the world to systematically examine the process for transferability of positive behaviors from formal intergenerational program models to encourage more stable and positive informal family systems.
See also: CHILDCARE; ELDERS; INTERGENERATIONAL RELATIONS; INTERGENERATIONAL TRANSMISSION; NEIGHBORHOOD; SANDWICH GENERATION; SCHOOL
Bibliography
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Other Resource
International Consortium for Intergenerational Programmes (ICIP). Web site. Available from http://www.centreforip.org.uk/about.htm.
SALLY NEWMAN
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