Continuity in Socialization Styles: Typologies of Socialization in the Different Life Stages of Older People

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to identify the socialization styles of the older person (such as authoritative, indulgent, authoritarian, and negligent) in three different roles: (1) nowadays as a grandparent, (2) considering the style used to educate their own children in the past; and (3), considering the socialization style they received when they were children. The sample (317 people over 65 years old with at least one grandchild aged up to 16 years old participated) received the questionnaire on socialization styles in those roles. The results showed the predominance of the indulgent style in their role as grandparents. Almost 80% showed intergenerational continuity between at least two roles, with the exception of those with a neglectful style. Continuity in socialization style is crucial to understanding the dynamics within family relationships, which have highly durable intergenerational ties.