Measuring Family Support in Europe - Softcover

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0954580559 ISBN 13: 9780954580551

Publisher: Southern Universities Press, 2007

Synopsis

Rapid demographic and social transformation in Europe poses challenges for intergenerational relations. In the context of ageing populations and less generous systems of social protection, the role of the family has returned to the forefront. Rising social inequalities and exclusion within some groups also contribute to a renewed interest in family solidarities.

During the 1990s, many European countries undertook research into these questions. This collection summarises some of the most important of these projects, setting them in the context of research into family exchanges during the latter part of the twentieth century. Eight countries, representing nine original projects, are represented - Belgium, England, France, Luxembourg, Norway, Portugal, Spain and Switzerland. Each contributor details how their project was conceptualised, undertaken, and the problems encountered along the way. Particular focus is given to how the concepts of help and support were conceptualised in the research.

The collective results show that family ties remain strong throughout Europe. At the same time, behaviour and values differ between countries, reflecting the impact of social institutions as well as cultural factors. Whereas extended family ties remain relatively strong, opinions about the role of the generations in giving help and support within families appear to be changing, with norms becoming more negotiable and involving persons from outside the immediate family.

About this title

About the Author

Catherine Bonvalet is a Director of Research at the Institut National d'Etudes Démographiques, Paris.

Jim Ogg is a Research Fellow at The Young Foundation, London.

Contributors: Claudine Attias-Donfut, Miriam Bernard, Catherine Bonvalet, Monique Borsenberger, Marie-Thérèse Casman, Juan Antonio Fernandez Cordon, Svein Olav Daatland, Jean Kellerhals, Jim Ogg, Laurent Ortalda, Judith Phillips, Chris Phillipson, Britt Slagsvold, Karin Wall, Eric Widmer.

Edition details

• Publisher: Southern Universities Press
• Publication date: 2007
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0954580559
• ISBN 13: 9780954580551
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 244
• Editor: Bonvalet Catherine, Ogg Jim