Changing intergenerational relationships and their implications on family structure and functioning in Africa
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Date
2013
Authors
Daniel, M.M.
Lucy, W. M.
Samuel, M. M.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
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Abstract
Intergenerational relationships have been changing the world over, with greater implications on the
family structure, health and stability. The key changes in Africa are often associated with colonial
intrusion and the attendant infiltration of Western cultures. The process has in recent times been
further exacerbated by the process of globalization. In the past, relationships between generations
were stipulated in culture and preserved by norms, folklore and even taboos. These relationships
were based on mutual respect, cooperation, obedience and benefit across generations. The honor,
respect and reverence of the old by the young were supposed to be passed down the generations.
With modern changes, these values have changed and in some cases, are completely eroded and
replaced with modern ideals often leading to dysfunctioning of the family. Some of the dysfunctions
include lack of care for older persons within the family, child delinquency, lack of internal
regulation of the family, lack of external mitigation in times of dispute, resulting to frequent
breakdown of the family. As a result, family relationships and roles are changing and so are the
intergenerational relationships. The patterns of change also create implications warranting
interventions beyond the capacity of the family
Description
Research Paper
Keywords
Family relationships, functioning, Intergenerational relationships
Citation
International Journal of Education and Research Vol. 1 No. 10 October 2013