Researchers analysed data from more than 38,000 adults across Europe to study how family members help one another and how those ties relate to health. The analysis shows that support across generations is common and may become more frequent as populations age.
The study finds that links between intergenerational support and both physical and mental health are complex. Help can sometimes be beneficial, sometimes harmful, and sometimes show no clear effect. The researchers do not settle these questions.
Anna Manzoni, a coauthor and professor of sociology at NC State, is part of the team that analysed the European data. The findings highlight patterns that need closer study and clearer measurement so scholars and service providers can better understand when support benefits family members.
Difficult words
- analyse — examine information carefully to find meaninganalysed
- intergenerational support — help between family members of different generations
- beneficial — producing good results or advantages
- harmful — causing damage or a bad effect
- patterns — repeated ways things happen or appear
- service provider — organization or person that offers services to othersservice providers
- complex — not simple, having many connected parts
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- When have you seen family support help someone's physical or mental health? Describe briefly.
- Why do you think help between generations can sometimes be harmful?
- What information should researchers collect to measure family support more clearly?
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