The Role of Grandparents

Abstract

This article presents the results of a research project based on in-depth interviews with newly retired grandparents and adolescents. Three basic patterns of relationship between grandparents and grandchildren emerge. On a wider level, this study echoes the flood of research over the last 20 years in the sociology of the family, research about intergenerational relationships and family solidarity. It is notable that this growth in interest conflicts with the emphasis placed upon the autonomy of generations by welfare states, materialized in that public sphere of exchange, the social welfare system. The author describes the socio-cultural context that has allowed assistance delivered within the family to be recognized and to become the subject of such interest. Certain pointers to a change in attitude are appearing, the most significant affecting age scales, family assistance and even the functioning of the welfare state.