Skip to main content

Citation

Dohlman, Camilla S.; Zalla, Lauren C.; Chung, Esther O.; Østbye, Truls; & Maselko, Joanna (2023). Generativity and Engagement in Grandparenting Activities among Older Adults in Northern Sri Lanka. International Journal of Aging and Human Development, 97(2), 249-262.

Abstract

Generativity refers to the desire to pass on one's skills, knowledge, and wisdom to future generations; this may be a clear indicator of the likelihood of older adults investing time and effort in engagement with their grandchildren. This cross-sectional study examines the relationship between generative beliefs and an index of multiple potential grandparenting activities. The data come from a convenience sample of 79 grandparents (aged 55+) living in Sri Lanka, a society experiencing rapid growth in its population of older adults. Regression analyses demonstrate that more endorsement of generative beliefs among older adults is associated with increased engagement in various grandparenting activities, with the strongest associations with reading, singing songs, and helping grandchildren with schoolwork or teaching them. Our findings suggest that generativity may be important for understanding the relationship between grandparenting and improved well-being for older adults.

URL

http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/00914150221143955

Reference Type

Journal Article

Year Published

2023

Journal Title

International Journal of Aging and Human Development

Author(s)

Dohlman, Camilla S.
Zalla, Lauren C.
Chung, Esther O.
Østbye, Truls
Maselko, Joanna

Article Type

Regular

Continent/Country

Sri Lanka

ORCiD

Maselko - 0000-0002-6270-8237