INTERGENERATIONAL INFLUENCES ON MIDWEST COLLEGE-STUDENTS BY THEIR GRANDPARENTS AND SIGNIFICANT ELDERS

In a study investigating intergenerational influences on college students, a majority of those sampled said a relationship with a grandparent or significant elder has had a strong influence, with positive impact on their values, goals, and life choices. As would be expected, these relationships also provide a thread of intergenerational continuity, giving students a sense of self, family history, tradition, and roots. Respondents also said that although stereotypes of elders may abound, they do not find them to be representative of their own relationships. The study has implications for gerontologists and educators concerned with enhancing intergenerational sensitivity, supporting reminiscence activities, organizing nursing home activities, and designing school-based programs. Programs that allow elders and youth of all ages to interact have positive impact on the youth, thus underscoring the value of involving three generations as a key to enhancing family cohesiveness.