Adult children's supportive behaviors and older parents' subjective well-being -: A developmental perspective on intergenerational relationships

Adult children's supportive behaviors were examined with respect. to children's autonomy and social motivation towards parents, and with respect to longitudinal changes of parents' subjective well-being. In total, 115 adult children from 83 German families completed a questionnaire on supportive behaviors and social motivation. The children also reported what pleased or irritated their parents most. Findings suggest that filial autonomy was associated with resistance to strain. Older parents' satisfaction improved when children expressed affection or gave emotional support. However informational support from children was associated with decreased satisfaction among parents. Findings suggest that filial autonomy may facilitate supportive behaviors that correspond to older parents' socioemotional needs.