Conflicts in Intergenerational Relationships and Patterns of Coordination among Chinese–African Families in Guangzhou

Abstract

Through case studies of Chinese–African couples living together with Chinese parents, this paper examines conflict coordination within intergenerational relationships in the same living environment. Among intergenerational families living in China and Africa, intergenerational differences as well as family relationship issues are sometimes inevitable. In addition, different families employ varying methods in order to alleviate intergenerational tension and maintain harmony within the family. Through fieldwork, it was found that there are three types of intergenerational relations: regulation by an intermediary, formal democracy, and excessive participation. Although all three models attempt to balance intergenerational voices and decision-making power, the first two models are generally present in relatively stable family relationships, while the last model consists of relatively negative aspects that actually add fuel to the fire when family conflicts arise. Although young Chinese–African couples and elderly Chinese parents expect family relations to function well, the contradictions brought about by power imbalances not only hurt the parent–child relationship, but more importantly affect the intimate marriage relationship and the upbringing of the children.