Symposium: Immigrants‘ Acculturation across the Lifespan

Scientific Conference (2021, July 28)

Immigrants’ acculturation is a bi-linear process that refer to the orientation towards the host and the ethnic culture. Additionally, acculturation is a multidimensional construct that comprises changes with respect to practices and behaviors, values and norms, and identity and identification (Schwartz, Unger, Zamboanga, & Szapocznik, 2010). From a developmental perspective, acculturation of first and second-generation immigrants differ remarkably because usually second generation immigrants have more opportunities to interact with representatives of the host culture in a phase of life with high plasticity (Sam & Oppedal, 2003). The symposium wants to gain insight into the complex acculturation processes with four studies that referred to different dimensions of acculturation and including age groups from adolescence to old age. The studies used quantitative and qualitative analyses and variable- as well as person-centered approaches. Starting with adolescence, Maehler provides a meta-analysis on factors that are related to identification with the ethnic and mainstream culture. Murdock and Gales also refer to the identity dimension of acculturation, here among young adults in Germany. With a qualitative approach they identified the role of the parents and the intergenerational relationships for the way how these young adults integrate both identities. In the third study with middle-aged second- generation immigrants in Switzerland, again intergenerational relationships are in the focus. Schwarz and Pfammatter analyzed the association of intergenerational relationships with orientations toward ethnic and mainstream culture. In the last study, Albert and colleagues used a person-centered approach. They investigated the patterns of sense of belonging on a local and national level of older immigrants in Luxembourg and the associations with expectations to stay and well-being. All four studies provide specific insight into the acculturation mechanism that are relevant in different periods of the lifespan.

Vulnerability in the context of migration: a critical assessment of its conceptualizations and uses

Scientific Conference (2021, July 07)

The notions of ‘vulnerability’ and ‘vulnerable group’ have increasingly gained prominence in academic literature, policymaking, humanitarian debates and everyday discourses on migration and asylum. Its popularity, not limited to this field, has often led academics and practitioners to use ‘vulnerability’ as a self-explanatory condition or phenomenon. However, vulnerability is neither conceptually straight-forward nor politically and morally neutral. Multiple definitions and operationalizations of vulnerability exist across and within different fields of research and practice, without a common and systematic understanding of the concept. The notion of vulnerability can also be instrumentilised as a tool for discrimination, stigmatization, control, exclusion or even reduction of humanitarian assistance, when access to protection is restricted to ‘the most vulnerable’. In the context of the H2020 project MIMY (n°870700), this paper examines the multiplicities and hidden pitfalls behind different conceptualizations and uses of vulnerability and critically reflects on their implication for the study and governance of migration. By unpacking this concept, we hope to highlight both limitations and opportunities enclosed in the notion of vulnerability and encourage migration scholars to understand, address and take a stand before its complexities. Based on these considerations, a multilevel conceptual model of vulnerability in the specific context of migration is proposed. The model aims to capture several types and understandings of vulnerability and how these are (re)produced at different levels and by different actors, including migrants themselves. Particular attention is paid to migrants’ biographical and psychological experiences of vulnerability and how policy and political frameworks may affect them.

The sense of belonging in the context of migration

Presentation (2021, April 28)

Perceived loneliness and the role of cultural and intergenerational belonging: the case of Portuguese first‑generation immigrants in Luxembourg

in European Journal of Ageing (2021)

The risk of loneliness for migrants, particularly in older age, has been documented across multiple studies. Migration is a life-changing transition. While often retaining links to their country of origin, an important developmental task for migrants is the establishment of bonds in the receiving country. Drawing on recent studies, I will explore the role of cultural and intergenerational belonging in order to identify both protective and risk factors regarding loneliness in middle and older age in a sample of first-generation immigrants from Portugal living in Luxembourg. The sample comprises N = 131 participants (51.9% female) between the ages of 41 and 80 (M = 56.08; SD = 7.80) who have on average spent M = 31.71 years (SD = 8.81) in Luxembourg and raised children in Luxembourg. They took part in the IRMA project (‘Intergenerational Relations in the Light of Migration and Ageing’) which was funded by the Fonds National de la Recherche Luxembourg. A standardised questionnaire assessed socio-demographic data, aspects of cultural belonging (i.e. cultural attachment to both countries, bicultural identity orientation, acculturative stress), intergenerational belonging (i.e. family cohesion, family conflict, perceived intergenerational value consensus) and perceived loneliness. Results showed that while cultural and intergenerational belonging were protective factors, the strongest predictors for participants’ perceived loneliness were cultural identity conflict and, even more so, intergenerational conflict. Our findings suggest that establishing roots and bonds in the host country is a protective factor against loneliness, whereas the feeling of not fitting in is a strong risk factor.

Resilienz im Kontext von Migration und Flucht

in Ringeisen, Tobias; Genkova, Petia; Leong, Frederick T. L. (Eds.) Handbuch Stress und Kultur: Interkulturelle und kulturvergleichende Perspektiven (2021)

Im Rahmen von Migration ergibt sich insbesondere für Geflüchtete ein erhöhtes Risiko von ungünstigen Entwicklungen und Adaptationsverläufen, da sie nicht nur mit allgemeinen Herausforderungen der Anpassung an einen neuen kulturellen Kontext konfrontiert sind, sondern auch mit spezifischen Erfahrungen im Herkunftsland oder auf der Flucht, die potentiell traumatisch sein können. Dennoch zeigen sich signifikante psychische Beeinträchtigungen in der Folge nur bei einem Teil der Geflüchteten. Das Konzept der Resilienz, das in den letzten Jahren nicht nur in Bereichen der klinischen Psychologie, sondern auch in der entwicklungspsychologischen Forschung und verwandten Disziplinen zunehmend an Bedeutung gewonnen hat, scheint besonders fruchtbar, um solche interindividuellen Unterschiede im Umgang mit Flucht- und Migrationserfahrungen zu erforschen. Nach einer kurzen Einführung in die Arten der Migration und damit zusammenhängende Herausforderungen befasst sich der vorliegende Beitrag mit Resilienz im Kontext von Migration und Flucht, wobei eine kritische Auseinandersetzung mit stark auf individuelle Faktoren fokussierten Konzeptualisierungen angestrebt und eine stärker systemische Sichtweise vorgeschlagen wird, wie sie auch neueren Ansätzen zur psychologischen Resilienz entspricht.

Perceived Ageism During the Covid-19-Crisis is Longitudinally Related to Subjective Perceptions of Aging

in Frontiers in Public Health (2021)

Ageism in media and society has increased sharply during the Covid-19-crisis, with expected negative consequences for the health and well-being of older adults. The current study investigates whether perceived ageism during the crisis longitudinally affects how people perceive their own aging. In June 2020, N = 611 older adults from Luxembourg [aged 60 – 98 years, Mage(SD) = 69.92(6.97)] participated in a survey on their perception of the crisis. In October 2020, N = 523 participated in a second measurement occasion. Participants reported on perceived ageism during the crisis in different domains, their self-perceptions of aging and subjective age. In latent longitudinal regression models, we predicted views on aging at T2 with perceived ageism at T1, while controlling for baseline views on aging and covariates. Perceived ageism at T1 increased self-perceptions of aging as social loss and yielded a trend for physical decline, while there were no effects on subjective age and self-perceptions of aging as continued growth. Views on aging are powerful predictors of well-being and health outcomes in later life. Our data suggest that being the target of ageism during the crisis negatively affects older adults’ self-perceptions of aging and this impact may be felt beyond the current crisis.

Families and family values in society and culture

Book published by Information Age Publishing (2021)

This book which has been created in the framework of the EU-funded COST Action INTERFASOL brings together researchers from 22 INTERFASOL countries, who frame intergenerational family solidarity in the specific historical, cultural, social and economic context of their own country. Integrating different perspectives from social and political sciences, economics, communication, health and psychology, the book offers country-specific knowledge and new insights into family relations, family values and family policies across Europe. The volume is the product of a unique endeavor of researchers across Europe to provide up-to-date first-hand country-specific knowledge on family and intergenerational relations and will serve as a base for both country-specific as well as cross-cultural studies.

Digitale Kommunikation im Alter – Erste Ergebnisse der CRISIS-Studie

Scientific Conference (2020, November 10)

In Folge der Kontaktbeschränkungen und Maßnahmen der sozialen Distanzierung zur Eindämmung der Corona Pandemie wurde vielfach von einem vermehrten Gebrauch digitaler Medien zur Aufrechterhaltung sozialer Kontakte berichtet. Die vorliegende Studie liefert erste Hinweise darauf, inwiefern sich das Kommunikationsverhalten älterer Menschen während der COVID-19 Krise verändert hat, wie der Gebrauch verschiedener Kommunikationsmittel mit der Reduktion von Einsamkeit und sozialer Isolation zusammenhängt und ob digitale Medien traditionelle Formen der Kommunikation verdrängen oder ergänzen. Im Juni 2020 wurden im Rahmen des vom FNR Luxemburg geförderten CRISIS-Projekts N = 611 in Privathaushalten lebende Personen im Alter zwischen 60 und 98 Jahren zu ihrem Erleben während der COVID-19 Krise befragt. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass das Telefon insgesamt zwar weiterhin das wichtigste Kommunikationsmittel älterer Menschen bleibt, jedoch nehmen digitale Medien insbesondere in der Gruppe der 60-69-jährigen einen wichtigen Stellenwert ein, um mit anderen in Kontakt zu bleiben. Dabei reduzierte ein gestiegener Gebrauch digitaler Medien (wie auch traditioneller Medien) das Gefühl, nicht genug Gesellschaft zu haben. Außerdem scheinen neue Arten der Kommunikation traditionelle Arten in unserer Zielgruppe nicht zu ersetzen, sondern sie ergänzen sich gegenseitig. Die Ergebnisse werden mit Bezug auf Maßnahmen zur Reduktion sozialer Isolation und Einsamkeit im Alter und im Kontext von COVID-19 diskutiert.

Intergenerational relations and the sense of belonging in the context of migration – What do second generation young adults learn from their first generation parents (and vice versa)?

Scientific Conference (2020, July 02)

Migration is a life transition that entails changes in social and emotional belonging, and an important developmental task for migrants is the establishment of bonds in the receiving country. While first generation immigrants have been enculturated in the culture of origin before being confronted with the host culture, their children grow up in two or multiple different value systems and cultures during their formative years. How does this so-called second-generation experience their cultural belonging and how are their identity constructions related to their parents’? This was a main topic of the FNR-funded IRMA project which compared first and second generations from Portuguese migrant families in the Luxembourgish multicultural context with regard to their cultural identity, intergenerational relations and transmission processes. The sample of the present study consists of family dyads resp. Triads comprising n = 70 PT mothers and n = 65 PT fathers over the age of 50 who arrived about 30 years ago to Luxembourg, together with n = 72 PT young adults (mean age M = 28. 2, SD = 7. 9; 61. 1% female) already born or grown up in Luxembourg. By use of a newly developed measure of cultural attachment to Luxembourg and Portugal, we examine the intergenerational continuity in the sense of cultural belonging and identify mediators in the transmission process such as relationship quality and the motivation to transmit or accept parental values. Results will be discussed with reference to an integrative model on intergenerational relations in the light of age and migration experiences.

Mixed Methods to Empower Migrant Youth in Vulnerable Conditions: a place-based, migrant-centered international project

Scientific Conference (2020, July 02)

In this methodological paper, we will present a newly established international and interdisciplinary research project focusing on empowering young migrants in vulnerable conditions and supporting integration strategies within the EU in a unique and comprehensive mixed methods research design combining secondary analysis with qualitative empirical data. The triangulation of results from different sources and methods will help to provide a deeper insight into the integration processes from the perspectives of migrants, host nationals and experts. In the framework of MIMY, financed by H2020 and comprising 12 consortium members from 11 disciplines and 9 European countries, we will focus on various challenges of integration strategies of young migrants in vulnerable conditions, considering different sectors from the perspective of different actors, at macro-, meso- and micro-levels. This will help to explain the successes and failures of integration over migrants’ life courses as well as the long-term consequences for migrant communities and the hosting society. The research design of MIMY follows several steps: 1) desk research - literature review, content analysis, mapping exercises, 2) quantitative secondary data analysis, policy and discourse analysis, 3) qualitative empirical studies, and 4) synthesizing and synergizing all findings and drawing policy recommendations. The present paper will outline how this project integrates qualitative and quantitative methods by using an innovative, multi-method approach (e.g. policy analyses, delphi study, focus groups, in-depth qualitative interviews, participatory action research) in order to explore vulnerability and resilience of young migrants in cross-national perspectives combining policy analysis with demographic, sociological, psychological, discursive, and ethnographic analysis.

Gerontagogy Toward Intergenerationality: Dialogical Learning Between Children and Elders

in Integrative Psychological and Behavioral Science (2020), 54

This paper aims at overcoming the following limits of gerontagogy –particularly with regard to Lemieux’s model: referencing chronological age; delimitating elders’ learning in reference to traits (styles, needs, behaviors, etc.) in contrast to children’s learning; overlooking the aging aspect. To do so, we propose to integrate aging and intergenerationality into gerontagogy from a sociocultural, dialogical and historical approach. This establishes the basis for an intergenerational and dialogical approach to elders’ learning.

Exploring Cultural Identity in a Multicultural Context—the Special Case of Luxembourg

in Human Arenas (2020), online first

In light of globalization and increased cultural diversity, the question of cultural identity becomes particularly salient in many societies today. Whereas most studies have concentrated on cultural identity of immigrants, less is known about the identity constructions of non-immigrants and receiving country nationals living in a multicultural setting. The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg with a foreign population of 48% provides an excellent example case here. The present study examined the cultural identity of two generations of native Luxembourgers, drawing on a content analysis of qualitative interviews with N = 18 participants belonging to nine family dyads, each composed of one (young) adult child and one parent. As Luxembourg’s cultural diversity has increased continuously in the last decades, we focussed here on similarities and differences between (young) adults and their parents in order to find out in how far age (i.e., different points in the individual life span) or generation (i.e., growing up in different times and historical contexts) might be highlighted in their cultural identity constructions. Five main domains pertaining to Luxembourger’s cultural identity were found through qualitative content analysis: ‘the Luxembourgish language’, ‘Belongingness to Luxembourg and the love for Luxembourg as a homeland’, ‘Europeanization and multiculturalism in Luxembourg’, ‘Representing Luxembourg as a native in international contexts’ and ‘Luxembourgish traditions and history’. While the older generation focused more on the feeling of belongingness to their home country, the younger generation made more specific links to Europe and multiculturalism. Practical and theoretical implications are discussed.

Living In-Between or Within? Cultural Identity Profiles of Second-Generation Young Adults with Immigrant Background

in Identity (2020), 20(4), 290-305

Migration flows have generally led to an increase in questions about the multiple influences on people’s cultural identity. This study aims to examine more closely the ways in which second-generation individuals of Portuguese descent juggle a two-fold cultural environment. We opted for a person-centered approach with a sample of N = 70 adults, all from Portuguese immigrant families living in the Grand-duchy of Luxembourg. Results yielded three different bicultural profiles: blended, alternating bicultural, and a new ambivalent cultural identity profile. Our results distinguish between psychological markers of identity and the behavioral aspects necessary for the transition from one cultural framework to the other. In addition, we observed different patterns of psychosocial health among the four cultural identity profiles. Our research enriches the literature by highlighting different endorsement of regulatory control strategies of second-generation adults according to their cultural identity profile, with different psychological outcomes.

The paradoxical effect of social support on suicidial ideation in bullying involvement in different cultural contexts

in Journal of child and adolescent behaviour (2020), 8(1), 1-11

This study examined the buffering effect of perceived social support on the association between bullying involvement and suicidal ideation. Cultural differences between Luxembourgish and Indian students were explored as well. The Olweus Bullying Questionnaire, the Participant Role Behaviour Questionnaire, and the Child and Adolescent Social Support Scale were used. Data of 483 high school students aged between 12 and 18 years were analysed using hierarchical regression. Significant cultural differences between Luxembourg and India in bullying involvement, perceived social support and suicidal ideation occurred. Importantly, it was found that perceived social support did not play a buffering role, but instead highly perceived social support from a close friend intensified the relationship between high cyber- and relational victimization and suicidal ideation.

Comparing societies and investigating culture: Money in pockets, and its meanings

in Noboru, Takahashi; Toshiya, Yamamoto (Eds.) Children and Money: Cultural Developmental Psychology of Pocket Money (2020)

“That’s a value I would transmit in some way, but how concretely, I don’t know” – Intergenerational value transfer revisited in light of memory

in Wagoner, Brady; Bresco, I.; Zadeh, S. (Eds.) Memory in the Wild (2020)

Intergenerational value transmission occurs widely and to a large extent within the family as primary socialization agent. In families, children are confronted with specific practices, paradigms, rules and routines which are part of their family culture (Albert & Barros Coimbra, 2017) and as such family is a mediator between societal/cultural and individual values. The ability to transmit values is essential for collective knowledge and memory, the continuity of value orientations being a main feature of intergenerational relations that enables members of different generations to communicate with each other (Barni, Rosnati, & Ranieri, 2013; Halbwachs, 1941/1992; Schönpflug, 2001). Intergenerational transmission of values becomes particularly complex in the context of migration or in times of rapid social change. On the one hand, family identity and traditions might provide a secure base in light of a changing context, and parents might find it important to transmit traditional values to the next generation in order to keep memories alive. At the same time, they might feel that their children should adapt to the changed cultural context, resulting in a (not always clear) dilemma about what they want for their children. How can migrant parents reconcile or move between the different collective frameworks of their culture of origin and the receiving culture (Middleton & Brown, 2005)? In the following, we will first give a brief overview over research in the area of intergenerational value transmission, and we will second illustrate and further inform our theoretical assumptions by identifying related themes and phenomena in our qualitative dyadic interviews. Then, we will delve into memory as a horizon that is emerging out of the analysis as a transversal theme. From this point of view, we continue the analysis and progressively integrate the notions pertaining to the role of memory in the intergenerational transmission of values. Aspects of cultural background are apparent in the excerpts that we will quote supporting the themes we will refer to. We will more explicitly return to this in our conclusions.

Views on Aging and Well-Being in the Covid Crisis – A Longitudinal Study in Luxembourg

in Innovation in Aging (2020), 4(Supplement_1), 961-961

During the Covid-Crisis, stereotypes of older adults as helpless and vulnerable were spread, and intergenerational conflict was stirred more or less openly. We thus focused on perceived ageism during the crisis and its effects on well-being and health of older adults. Since views on aging are multifaceted and can be both, risk and resource for individual development, we assessed people’s self-perceptions of aging (SPA) as social loss, continued growth and physical decline and subjective age (SA). We hypothesized that people with SPA of social loss and physical decline would be more susceptible to negative effects of perceived ageism, whereas those with SPA of continued growth and younger SA would be less affected. NT1 = 611 community-dwelling adults aged 60 – 98 (Mage = 69.92 years) were recruited in June 2020 online and via phone in Luxembourg. In September 2020, participants will be contacted again for a follow-up. Analyses with cross-sectional data show that participants who felt more discriminated reported lower life satisfaction after the onset of the crisis (r = -.35) and worse subjective health (r = -.14). SPA of social loss and higher SA increased the negative effect of ageism on well-being (beta = -.57) and subjective health (beta = -.53), respectively. Our results point to mid- and long-term consequences of age discriminatory and stereotype-based crisis communication for the well-being of older adults and the importance of individual SPA in critical situations.

Psychology and Aging: European Perspectives

in European Psychologist (2020), 25(3),

Development across the life span and (Cross-)Cultural Psychology

Presentation (2019, October 21)

INTERGENERATIONAL VALUE TRANSMISSION AND THE ROLE OF MOTIVATIONAL PROCESSES IN MIGRANT AND NON-MIGRANT FAMILIES

Scientific Conference (2019, September 01)

The intergenerational transmission of values from one generation to the next is essential for the continuity of a society as it facilitates communication between members of different generations and within families, where shared values constitute a part of the family identity. In the context of acculturation, traditions can provide a secure base for migrants who have to adapt to a new living context. On the one hand, parents in migrant families might find it particularly important to transmit traditional values to the next generation, on the other hand offspring can be confronted with diverse value orientations in the receiving culture, and therefore special efforts might be needed to transmit traditional values. The current study is part of the larger FNR-funded IRMA project and presents a crosscultural comparison of n = 154 triads of parents and their (young) adult children from Luxembourgish native and Portuguese immigrant families in Luxembourg, as well as a subsample of Portuguese families living in Portugal. Participants from both generations filled out a standardized questionnaire assessing general value orientations, perceived value similarity as well as parental motivation to transmit respectively children’s motivation to take over parental values. Results showed that parental motivation to transmit values was particularly high in Portuguese families (in Portugal and Luxembourg), although no differences in perceived value similarity between the three subsamples occurred. Whereas parental motivation for transmission was related to the value of tradition in all three subsamples, perceived similarity between parents and their adult children was related to their selforiented values. Concerning consensus in value profiles, the role of motivational processes will be further explored, and effects of culture and migration will be discussed in an integrative framework of intergenerational relations in light of migration and ageing.

Elder Care in the Context of Migration

Scientific Conference (2019, July 03)

Background: Demographic changes related to ageing and migration are key societal issues of our days. Cultural diversity in elder care will increase considerably in the next years especially in Northern and Western European countries due to a large share of first generation immigrants from the 1950s to 1970s. Culture-specific needs, expectations and behavioral tendencies become particularly salient in times of frailty. Cultures differ in how they arrange old age care and intergenerational co-residence patterns. When families migrate from a more collectivist, family-oriented to a more individualist cultural context, the question arises in how far traditional care patterns from the country of origin are retained or adapted to the host cultural context. Ageing migrants have been found to be more reluctant regarding formal care due to cultural, religious or language issues which might put specific pressure on their close family members who are often responsible for care arrangements, even if not providing hands-on care. Objectives: The aim of the present study was to examine how established formal assistance should be modified in order to fit the special needs of both informal caregivers and care receivers with migration background. For this purpose, we will draw on two sub-studies: a) a qualitative study with n = 3 in-depth expert-interviews in the field of elder care and migration, and b) a survey in a daycare center with a large population of elder care receivers with migrant background. Results/Discussion: Preliminary results show different starting points for a culture-sensitive adaptation of the services. First, as the existence of help services is often unknown to migrants, it is important to provide low-threshold information, involving multipliers. Second, an important aspect is the culture-sensitive training of staff, increasing their awareness of cultural aspects in care and introducing an individualized as well as relationship-oriented approach. Finally, the exchange of caregivers with other concerned turned out to be a helpful resource and therefore it shall be facilitated and supported by formal services. A structural integration of cultural sensitive care services in the existing elder care system is highly suggested in order to meet the future challenges.

Cross-Cultural Psychogerontology

in Gu, Danan; Dupre, Matthew E. (Eds.) Encyclopedia of Gerontology and Population Aging (2019)

Population aging is a phenomenon that affects most parts of the world. According to recent data from the World Population Prospects (United Nations 2017), the number of older persons – those aged 60+ – has reached 962 million worldwide and is expected to climb to 2.1 billion in 2050. In spite of these general world trends, life expectancies differ still largely, and aging remains a highly diverse experience across the world. While universal developmental tasks are markers for older age in all societies (e.g., becoming a grandparent), expectations with regard to typical life trajectories and the timing of transitions vary. This “social clock” (Neugarten et al. 1965) or “cultural chrononormativity of aging” (Brinkmann and Musaeus 2018) is also expressed in legal regulations and policies (e.g., availability and timing of retirement schemes). Normative and nonnormative life events and their interpretation as on time or off-time might thus be defined very differently depending on the cultural (and historical) context (see also Baltes et al. 1980; Wrosch and Heckhausen 2005). This leads to one of the central questions of cross-cultural aging research: Are aging processes universals across cultures and societies in the Western, Eastern, Northern, and Southern parts of the world – or do aging processes differ between cultures and societies?

Ageing and Care in Cultural Perspective

Scientific Conference (2019, May 24)

Population ageing and migration are key issues in many societies today. Despite globalisation and cultural contact, cultures still differ in their ideas and expectations with respect to ageing and late life. This becomes particularly evident regarding old age provision. Whereas old age care preferences in western, individualistically oriented cultures rather highlight autonomy and staying independent as long as possible, collectivistic cultures traditionally rely on family care and co-residence. Cultural preferences are also expressed in different policies and extent of state provision for old-age. The question of how care decisions are taken becomes particularly prominent in light of societal transitions or migration when old care patterns might no longer hold. The present symposium focusses on cultural aspects of ageing and care from different parts of the world, drawing on both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Starting with a general view on how people prepare for later life, the symposium deepens the focus on transitions to old age care in different cultural contexts and in light of migration. The first presentation draws on a large cross-cultural comparison between Germany, Hong Kong, and the US, and examines how personal timing of late-life preparation is associated with subjective residual life expectation. In the next contribution, we have then a closer look into cultural influences on older people’s transition into a nursing home, taking into account also family and context factors. This is followed by an in-depth look into decisional processes related to care home entry in a non-western cultural context. Afterwards, we address the context of migration, thereby comparing more independently oriented vs. family oriented cultural contexts and how the transition between the two might have an impact on preferences for different care arrangements. Finally, we focus on the emerging topic of specific needs of migrants in nursing homes, increasingly important in light of growing numbers of ageing first generation migrants.

Dynamics of Intergenerational Relations in the Context of Migration – A Resource Perspective at the Intersection of Family and School

in Psychology & Society (2019), 11(1), 28-34

Educational attainment is key for societal integration and participation. In light of growing numbers of immigrants, the question of how school success of children with migrant background can be assured is of utmost importance, certainly for these children and their families but also for societal cohesion. Youngsters with migration background are an important resource for the future, also considering the ageing of many modern societies today. The article by Matthiesen (2019) deals with a well-known problem: migrant parents’ lacking school involvement. The acculturation situation might therefore constitute a disadvantage for children of these migrant families right from the start, especially if we assume that parental involvement has in general positive effects on their children’s school success, able to reduce behavioural problems and to foster academic achievement. The present commentary will deal with these and other questions that have been raised by Matthiesen’s (2019) article.

Intergenerational value continuity in the context of migration: The case of Portuguese families in Luxembourg

Presentation (2019, April 04)

The intergenerational transmission of values is not only essential for the continuity of a society as it facilitates communication between members of different generations, but also within families, where shared values constitute a part of the family identity and regulate intergenerational relations and exchange. In the context of acculturation, traditions can provide a secure base for migrants who have to adapt to a new living context. However, although parents in migrant families might find it particularly important to transmit their values to the next generation, their offspring can be confronted with diverse value orientations in the receiving culture. This leads to the question of how value continuity evolves in migrant compared to non-migrant families. Earlier studies have conceptualized the process of intergenerational transmission by drawing on the two step model of internalization by Grusec and Goodnow, with an accurate perception of the parental message and the acceptance of the message by the child as prerequisites for successful transmission. Several recent studies have provided evidence in particular for the importance of parental socialization values and parental motivation for intergenerational transmission. Taking aspects of communication and bidirectionality into account, we argue here that apart from the explicit motivation to transmit values from one generation to the next, also more implicit processes occur within the process of intergenerational value transfer. Our theoretical assumptions are illustrated by findings from quantitative as well as qualitative data collected within the framework of the FNR-funded research project IRMA (“Intergenerational Relations in the Light of Migration and Ageing”), including a cross-cultural comparison of n = 154 triads of parents and their (young) adult children from Luxembourgish native and Portuguese immigrant families in Luxembourg as well as in-depth interviews with n = 20 family dyads from both subgroups. Results show that parental motivation to transmit values was particularly high in Portuguese families, although no differences in perceived value similarity between the subsamples occurred. Concerning consensus in values, the role of motivational processes will be further explored, and effects of culture and migration will be discussed in an integrative framework of intergenerational relations in light of migration and ageing.

Akkulturation als Integrationsressource

in Pickel, Gert; Decker, Oliver; Kailitz, Steffen; Röder, Antje; Schulze Wessel, Julia (Eds.) Handbuch Integration (2019)

Akkulturation ist ein breit gefasstes Konzept, das Veränderungen in Folge eines interkulturellen Kontaktes beschreibt. Im Beitrag werden Modelle sowie der Bezugsahmen der Akkulturation dargestellt. Dabei können verschiedene Facetten des individuellen Akkulturationsprozesses betrachtet werden. Hierzu zählen die Einstellung zur Akkulturation, kognitive Kompetenzen, die soziale Interaktion, die Identität, das Verhaltensrepertoire und die strukturelle Platzierung. Basierend auf dem bidimensionalen Modell war die Akkulturationsforschung im letzten Jahrzehnt stark auf Typologien zentriert, die die Beziehung zwischen der Herkunftskultur und der Aufnahmegeschalt auf Individualebene beschreibt. Dabei wurde vorwiegend von einer Defizitperspektive ausgegangen. In Anbetracht einer globalisierten Welt sollte Akkulturation jedoch aus einer Ressourcenperspektive verstanden werden, da das Wissen um und über verschiedene Kulturen das Verhaltensrepertoire von Individuen erweitert.

Family, migration, and intergenerational solidarity

Scientific Conference (2018, September 06)

Migration and cultural diversity are key issues for many European countries today, and family relations are becoming increasingly important in this context. Intergenerational solidarity can have different forms and may differ across as well as within cultures. In fact, different patterns of support have been found comparing migrant with non-migrant families. In general, parents represent an important resource of support even for adult children; the other way round, offspring in migrant families have been found to provide substantial practical support for their parents such as help with administrative tasks or translations already at younger ages, and family support can become more important with increasing age when older migrants need help or care. Families migrating from more collectivist, family-oriented to more individualistic cultural contexts might find it difficult to adapt to prevalent values and practices regarding intergenerational support in the receiving society, and adult children might experience strain and difficulties in meeting their parents’ expectations. Further, the question of how families arrange intergenerational solidarity in the light of multilocality becomes pertinent as migrants are confronted with the task to regulate their relations with family members who stay in their countries of origin. The present symposium deals with these questions by use of both quantitative and qualitative methods, bringing together researchers from four European countries (Switzerland, Germany, Luxembourg, and Portugal) which are characterized by high numbers of immigrants resp. emigrants. First, Bettina Isengard, Ronny König and Marc Szydlik explore patterns of intergenerational family solidarity all over Europe, concentrating on differences between migrant and non-migrant families as well as geographical distance between family members. Second, Heike Buhl, Sabrina Sommer and Christian Hoellger have a closer look at felt obligations to support parents in a sample from Germany, thereby examining in how far migrants and non-migrants differ with regard to their adherence to family values and how these are related to other aspects of intergenerational solidarity. Stephanie Barros and Isabelle Albert focus then on intergenerational support exchange in Portuguese migrant compared to Luxembourgish families with young adult children. Finally, Carlos Barros, Luana Cunha Ferreira and Carla Crespo analyse the relationship between emigrated family members and those who stay in the country of origin, namely Portugal, focusing in particular on aspects of intergenerational support to foster well-being and cohesion. The contributions will be discussed by Elke Murdock taking into account aspects of multicultural identity and integration and their roles for the regulation of family relations.

Kultur und Sozialisation

in Lindenberger, Ulman; Schneider, Wolfgang (Eds.) Entwicklungspsychologie (2018)

Intergenerational Family Solidarity, Well-Being and Health

Scientific Conference (2018, April 19)

Relations Between Parenting and Adolescent's Attachment in Families Differing in Solidarity Patterns

in Social Development (2018)

To explain attachment development in adolescence in different contexts we applied the family solidarity model (e.g., Bengtson, 2001) generally used to analyze intergenerational adult children-elderly parents relations. The model differentiates four family solidarity patterns which were assumed in our study to occur in adolescent –parent relations, though with a different distribution. We tested a susceptibility hypothesis assuming that effects of parenting will be stronger in family patterns with higher, compared with lower, affectual solidarity. A sample of Polish adolescents, their mothers ( N=570, both), and their fathers ( N=290) was surveyed as part of the Value-of-Children Study (Trommsdorff & Nauck, 2005). Four family patterns were identified: highly affectual amicable and harmonious; and less affectual and most frequently displayed detached and disharmonious patterns. The parenting susceptibility hypothesis was supported: For amicable and harmonious families, adolescents’ perception of maternal rejection was more strongly related with their attachment compared with the other family types. Partly in line with our hypothesis, effects of paternal rejection on adolescents ’ attachment were strongest in amicable families, however, not significant in harmonious families. The study demonstrates that the relation between parenting on adolescents ’ attachment representation is influenced by the pattern of family parents –child relations.

AMBIVALENCE TOWARD PARENTS DURING THE PROCESS OF INDIVIDUATION: Being Caught Between Autonomy and Relatedness?

in Albert, Isabelle; Abbey, Emily; Valsiner, Jaan (Eds.) Trans-generational family relations: investigating ambivalences (2018)

The concept of ambivalence has gained considerable research interest in the last years in the study of intergenerational relationships. Lüscher and colleagues (2010) define the experience of ambivalence as an oscillation between (temporarily or permanently) irreconcilable, contradictory emotions, thoughts, wishes, and behavioral tendencies that individuals may experience in identity- and agency-relevant social relationships. Such dynamics can include simultaneous conflicting tendencies of “autonomy and dependence,” “freedom and control,” or “closeness and distance” (Lüscher & Hoff, 2013). Because intergenerational family relations are in general relatively close over the whole lifespan and not easily dissolvable, they are—according to these authors—particularly predisposed to experiences of ambivalence. In the present chapter, we concentrate on the link between perceived parental behavior and the experience of ambivalence toward parents in adolescence and emerging adulthood.

Cultural psychology of transgenerational family relations: Investigating ambivalences

Book published by IAP (2018)

The present volume deals with the experience of ambivalence in family relations - a well-known phenomenon that has inspired more and more research and theorizing in the last years but that is however sometimes difficult to capture. Bringing together junior and senior researchers from different parts of the world, ideas on theory and research are elaborated following qualitative and quantitative approaches. This book thus contributes to theory-building as well as outlining research results and helping to develop measurement in interpersonal and intergenerational relations.

Because I need them, because I don’t: Regulation of family relations between adult children and their parents

Poster (2017, August)

The world’s demography has evolved requiring policy makers and practitioners all over the world to face in the next years important issues specifically related to the steadily increasing migration. Only few studies have, however, focused on the regulation of relations between adult children and their ageing parents in host national compared to immigrant families. Migrant families might be confronted with specific tasks. While the acculturation situation might give rise to an increased need for intergenerational support, an acculturation gap between both generations can potentially lead to different expectations. Adult children from immigrant families might, for instance, be subject to the experience of ambivalent or conflictual feelings regarding the desire to become independent from their parents; at the same time, they may feel the urge to conform to parental expectations or to support their parents in accordance to the values of their parents’ culture of origin. However, older parents may also undergo changes in their perception of intergenerational support and lower their expectations in the process of acculturation. A qualitative cross-cultural comparison is conducted of n = 10 Portuguese and n = 10 Luxembourgish dyadic interviews of older parents and their adult children, both living in the Grand-Duchy of Luxembourg. We will focus on different key issues regarding the regulation of intergenerational family relations between first and second generations of host nationals and immigrants focussing on processes such as interdependent and independent selfconstrual comparing both cultural groups and both generations. First analyses show a heightened importance of geographical proximity in Portuguese migrant families compared to Luxembourgish native families for family relations. Likewise, regular interactions appear to be more required, needed and expected in Portuguese migrant families, especially from the parents while this is only to some extent, supported by their children.

“It is in giving that we receive, isn’t it?” – Intergenerational family solidarity, reciprocity and subjective well-being in the context of migration.

Scientific Conference (2017, July 17)

Research on intergenerational relations has underlined the importance of reciprocity in the regulation of support exchange. The VOC study has demonstrated cross-cultural differences in reciprocity and effects on subjective well-being. Less is known regarding migrant families as intergenerational support patterns could differ from host families due to specific needs or depending on different value orientations and family norms. Here, we focus therefore on the role of reciprocity in intergenerational family support in a sample of altogether N = 152 Luxembourgish and Portuguese (young) adults and their parents, all living in Luxembourg. In general, parents reported providing more social support for their children than they receive; but PT compared to LUX children reported providing as much social support as they receive from their parents. Results will be discussed within an integrative model on intergenerational family relations in the light of migration and ageing.

Multiculturalism in Luxembourg: Challenges and opportunities.

Scientific Conference (2017, July 14)

An unprecedented number of first generation immigrants will approach retirement age. Two projects from Luxembourg are presented: the FNR-funded project on "Intergenerational Relations in the light of Migration and Ageing” with focus on the ageing Portuguese migrants, and a pilot field project focusing on bringing together elderly people with different social and cultural background by an Intercultural walking group.

Luxembourgish national identity and natives’ perception of immigrants

Poster (2017, July)

Migration is an important issue nowadays even more so in the light of the growing antimigrant attitudes we are currently witnessing all over the world. Luxemburg’s history, as many other countries, is also shaped by important migration waves as well as a growing national consciousness. It is therefore crucial to delve deeper into the way foreigners are perceived by natives in countries with dense immigrant populations. In the present study, we will have a closer look on the perceived threat from Luxembourgish natives’ viewpoint (N = 227; Mage = 37.2, SD = 14.9; range: 16-74; 59% of girls) regarding immigrants in general that could in a long-term perspective favour hostile attitudes towards foreigners. First analyses have showed that commitment to the own national identity, sense of security, satisfaction with current life and a higher proportion of non-Luxembourgish individuals within the circle of friends and own family are related with a lower perceived threat.

Les immigrants portugais au Luxembourg : Projets futurs et bien-être

Scientific Conference (2017, March 01)

Actuellement, dans plusieurs pays européens, les immigrants de la première génération se rapprochent de l’âge de la retraite, confrontant ainsi prochainement les sociétés occidentales aux besoins émergents des futurs pensionnés immigrants et de leur famille. Au Luxembourg, à ce jour, la communauté portugaise représente le groupe migrant le plus important (16 % de la population totale). En 2011, près de 14% de la population totale était recensé comme étant âgé de plus de 65 ans, dont 3.7% de Portugais. Peu de recherches ont été menées concernant les projets futurs de ces immigrants portugais ainsi que des attentes mutuelles entre générations familiales. Dans notre étude nous nous concentrons sur (1) les projets futurs du retour migratoire des immigrants portugais âgés, (2) les caractéristiques des différents groupes (a)rester au Luxembourg, b) retourner au Portugal, c) alterner entre les deux pays) et (3) les stratégies d’autorégulation de chaque groupe en considérant le contrôle primaire et secondaire, la satisfaction de vie ainsi que le soutien intergénérationnel entre parents migrants âgés et leurs enfants adultes. L’étude présentée fait partie du projet IRMA (« Intergenerational Relations in the light of Migration and Ageing »), qui s’intéresse aux relations entre les enfants adultes et leurs parents âgés, en comparant des familles PT à des familles LU, toutes résidentes du Luxembourg. Seules les données concernant la génération des parents PT ont été utilisées pour la présente étude. Les participants, au nombre de N = 125 et âgés entre 41 et 80 ans (51.2% de femmes), ont été interrogés à l’aide d’un questionnaire standardisé (PT et FR). Tous les participants sont nés au Portugal, mais vivent au Luxembourg depuis en moyenne M = 31.36 ans (SD = 8.66). Les résultats démontrent la diversité au sein du groupe des immigrants. Les raisons d’un éventuel retour s’avèrent être de nature plutôt personnelle/individuelle, liées aux aspects du style de vie ainsi qu’à un sentiment d’identité culturelle étroitement associé au pays d’origine ; les motifs pour rester au Luxembourg ou alterner sont quant à eux plutôt sociaux/familiaux et pratiques. La venue de petits-enfants ainsi que le lieu de vie des enfants adultes semblent influencer la décision finale, laissant entrevoir l’importance des relations et du soutien intergénérationnels. La participation et le dévouement au pays d’accueil et le choix de rester peuvent aussi grandir au fur et à mesure des années passées dans ce pays. Les programmes pour la prévention de la santé et la promotion du bien-être devraient être plus étroitement adaptés aux besoins, souhaits et idéaux des immigrants âgés, tout en prenant en considération la question de savoir où ils veulent habiter dans le futur et pourquoi ainsi que le système de soutien intrafamiliale mis en place par les familles elles-mêmes. Les résultats seront davantage discutés et élaborés en vue d’éventuels futurs programmes de prévention et de soutien.

Obituary: Dieter Ferring (1958-2017)

in GeroPsych: Journal of Gerontopsychology and Geriatric Psychiatry (2017), 30(4), 135-136

Memorializes Dieter Ferring, who contributed to life-span developmental psychology, geropsychology, and cultural psychology in research, teaching, professional practice, and political consulting. His life work centered on life circumstances that included threats to people's well-being and on identifying and implementing solutions for such aversive conditions. His scientific approach was characterized by analysing phenomena in their micro and macro context, by interdisciplinarity, by emphasis on cognitive and semiotic mediation, and by using mixed-method approaches to data collection and analyses. Dieter Ferring had been much engaged in productive cooperations with researchers from other countries in Europe and in disseminating his insights and findings to study programs beyond his own field as well as to the general public. He also served as an expert and research partner to policymakers and community administrators and leaders in practical and applied fields.

Intergenerational Family Relations over the Life Course

Presentation (2016, May 23)

The present course will focus on intergenerational family relations over the life-span from the perspective of developmental psychology. In the first section, we will have a closer look at central definitions, models and concepts from life-span developmental psychology–for instance, life-span models of development, structuring the life course, developmental tasks, normative and non-normative life events, and the concept of generation. In the second part, we will focus on key concepts in the study of intergenerational family relations, such as intergenerational solidarity, conflict and ambivalence. Further, specific research evidence regarding intergenerational relations over the life span (including adolescent-parent, adult child-parent as well as grandchild-grandparent relations) will be presented and discussed, also taking into account cross-cultural aspects and intergenerational relations in the context of migration.

Les immigrés portugais au Luxembourg: Projets futurs et bien-être

Article for general public (2016)

Special Issue on Aging and Migration in Europe

in GeroPsych: Journal of Gerontopsychology and Geriatric Psychiatry (2016), 29(2),

Europe is experiencing demographic and social challenges unprecedented in its history. Migration flows, though not a new phenomenon, represent one of these challenges. Migration as the movement of social and national groups within as well as into Europe includes several motivations and objectives. Depending on these motivations, migrants are considered as welcome asset or as not-wanted claiming benefits of the national social security systems. What can we learn from earlier migration waves? Currently, a large number of first-generation immigrants of the big immigration waves of the 1960s and 1970s are approaching retirement age in many European countries. Contrary to earlier expectations, studies have shown that only a part of these aging migrants return to their countries of origin after retirement, whereas a larger part decides to stay permanently in the receiving country or to commute between both countries. Growing old in the context of migration has thus become a hot topic for many societies. Based on research from several European countries with large shares of immigrants, namely UK, Estonia, Denmark and Luxembourg, the special issue aging and migration focuses on some key questions regarding aging migrants. For instance, what do we know about cultural and ethnic identities of older migrants and how these are related to their transnational family relationships? How can social networks and intergenerational family solidarity of older migrants be described? What are specifics of care in the context of acculturation? The present contributions give some first answers to these questions, taking also into account how subjective well-being of aging migrants and their families might be enhanced.

Intergenerational Family Relations in Luxembourg: Adult Children and their Ageing Parents in Migrant and Non-Migrant Families

in Roland-Lévy, Christine; Denoux, P.; Voyer, B.; Boski, P.; Gabrenya Jr., W. K. (Eds.) Unity, diversity and culture: Research and Scholarship Selected from the 22nd Congress of the International Association for Cross-Cultural Psychology (2016)

Whereas most studies in the context of acculturation research have focused so far on family relations between first generation parents and their second generation children in adolescence, the present study draws its attention on immigrant families at later stages in the family life cycle. This study is part of the FNR-funded project on “Intergenerational Relations in the Light of Migration and Ageing – IRMA” in which a cross-cultural comparison of altogether N = 120 Portuguese and Luxembourgish triads of older parents and their adult children, both living in the Grand-Duchy of Luxembourg, is envisaged. The aims of this project are, firstly to examine similarities and differences in family values, internalized norms and mutual expectations of older parents and their adult children in migrant and non-migrant families; secondly, to analyze in how far an acculturation gap respectively a generation gap might have an impact on the relationship quality between parents and their adult children; thirdly and related to this, to explore subjective well-being (SWB) of all involved family members. Results are discussed in the framework of an integrative model of intergenerational family relations in the light of migration and ageing.

Future plans and the regulation of well-being of older Portuguese immigrants in Luxembourg

in Social Inquiry into Well-Being (2016), 2(1), 70-78

Ageing and migration have become key issues in many European countries, as an unprecedented number of first generation immigrants are currently approaching retirement age. A permanent return to the country of origin seems to be enacted more seldom after retirement than initially envisaged, a phenomenon referred to as “myth of return”. Instead, a third alternative seems to gain interest for ageing migrants, namely commuting between host country and country of origin. The present paper addresses future plans regarding preferred country of residence after retirement and the regulation of well-being of middle-aged and older first generation immigrants. The sample included N = 109 Portuguese first generation immigrants (49.5% female; average age: M = 55.35, SD = 7.42) who had been living in Luxembourg for about M = 30.69 (SD = 8.55) years. Analyses show that only one-fifth of participants plan to return to Portugal, whereas almost one-half prefer to stay in Luxembourg, one-quarter choose to commute, the remainder still being undecided. No differences in life-satisfaction were found, but those who plan to return used fewer self-regulatory strategies compared to those who want to stay or commute; in the STAY group, positive reappraisal strategies were related most strongly to their life-satisfaction, whereas for those who plan to commute both primary and secondary control were beneficial. Interestingly, lowering aspirations was positively related with life-satisfaction for those who plan to return to their country of origin after retirement. Results are discussed taking into consideration aspects of integration and migration experiences over the life-span.

Acculturation strategies of young immigrants living in Belgium: The view of young Belgian nationals

in Roland-Lévi, Christine; Denoux, Patrick; Voyer, Benjamin; Boski, Pawel; Gabrenya, William; Rhode, Ann Kristin; Lemoine, Jérémy (Eds.) Unity, diversity and culture. Proceedings from the 22nd Congress of the International Association for Cross-Cultural Psychology (2016)

In contemporary society, migration has become a key topic. According to Berry (1997), individuals might display different attitudes and behaviors in the process of acculturation, defined as cultural and psychological changes resulting from the direct contact among members of multiple cultures. Whereas most research has concentrated on the acculturation strategies of immigrants, the aim of this study is to focus on the preferences of members of the receiving society. In particular, we analyze which strategy young Belgians consider the most suitable for immigrants to adopt, using a sample of Belgian students between the ages of 18 and 29 years living in Brussels. We account for several variables to shed light on the important aspects of intergroup relationships between host nationals and immigrants.

Past Experiences and Future Orientations of Portuguese Immigrants in Luxembourg

Scientific Conference (2015, November 18)

In the next years Luxembourg will be confronted with an unprecedented number of older persons with migrant background. The present study has the aim to 1) explore the migration experiences and future plans of Portuguese immigrants in Luxembourg who are close to retirement age, and 2) to compare them to their Luxembourgish counterparts regarding future orientations and preferences for control strategies. The sample included n = 94 Portuguese first generation immigrants (52.1% female; average age: M = 57.05, SD = 6.84) and n = 102 Luxembourgish nationals (56.3% female, average age: M = 56.87, SD = 7.39). Preliminary results show that the majority of Portuguese immigrants plan to stay in Luxembourg after retirement. Regarding control strategies, Portuguese compared to Luxembourgish participants scored higher on lowering aspirations. Also, different correlational patterns between control strategies and future orientations were found. Results will be discussed taking into consideration cross-cultural differences and migration experiences.

Expectations of mutual support and care in the light of migration

Scientific Conference (2015, September 08)

As first generation immigrants are currently approaching retirement age in many European countries, intergenerational solidarity within the context of acculturation gains high importance. However, most research on intergenerational relations in ageing families so far has not drawn special attention to migrant families. The aim of the present study was to investigate similarities and differences in the expectations about intergenerational support in a sample of n = 48 Luxembourgish (68.8% female) and n = 36 Portuguese (60.5% female) adult children and at least one of their parents. Luxembourgish adult children were on average M = 25.90 (SD = 5.74) years old, Portuguese M = 27.28 (SD = 6.49). A total of 58.3% of Portuguese adult children were born in Luxembourg; the remainder was born in Portugal but had grown up in Luxembourg. For all participants, both parents were still alive and were living in the Grand-Duchy. Whereas Luxembourgish and Portuguese adult children did not differ regarding family cohesion and expected support from parents toward children, Portuguese participants reported higher expectations of support from adult children toward their ageing parents. More Portuguese than Luxembourgish parents indicated they would like to live with their children in case of need, whereas more Luxembourgish parents preferred to live in a residential home. Nonetheless, no differences between adult children of both national groups were found regarding filial anxiety about future care of parents. Results are discussed in the framework of an integrative model on intergenerational family relations in the light of migration and ageing. This model takes several aspects into account that might have an impact on different needs, tasks and resources of the individual and the family depending on different family cultures, the larger cultural context in which family relations are embedded as well as significant events over the life-span (such as migration history).

Multiculturalism and its effects on Portuguese Migrants living in Luxembourg

Poster (2015, September)

Multikulturalismus in Luxemburg: Ein Vergleich von Luxemburgern und portugiesischen Migranten der ersten und zweiten Generation

Scientific Conference (2015, August)

Ageing and Migration in Europe

Scientific Conference (2015, July)

Ageing and migration have become key topics in Europe today, as a large number of first generation immigrants of the 1970s are currently approaching retirement age in many European countries. Although the idea of return migration might often be well present in the lives of ageing migrants, an actual permanent return to the country of origin seems to be enacted more seldom by today’s immigrants after retirement. This might be due to several reasons such as social aspects (e.g., family and friends), economic issues or health. It is therefore of prime importance to learn more about the particular needs and resources of older migrants and their families. Ageing migrants face undoubtedly a special situation: The acculturation situation may result in an increased need for social support due to fewer sociocultural resources in the host country; however, they may also have a smaller social network due to difficulties in adapting to the host country. Within migrant families, an acculturation gap between first and second generation might further lead to different expectations regarding intergenerational solidarity and support, and this can have negative effects on well-being of the different family members. Issues of assistance and care for aged migrants will thus be crucial both for the receiving society which has to address issues of diversity, integration and social cohesion, as well as for families which provide still the lion’s share of support for the aged. Policy makers and practitioners are conscious of the increasing importance of these issues, but more research is needed in order to improve the provisions of age-specific services and assistance for ageing migrants and their families. The present symposium aims to put issues of migration and ageing on the agenda and to raise the awareness of these hot topics in today’s society. It brings together leading researchers in the field of ageing and migration from four different European countries which are characterized by a large share of immigrants in their population, namely UK, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and Switzerland. Contributions will focus on different, country specific immigrant (and national) groups, examining aspects of ethnic identity and multiculturalism, intergenerational relations, social networks, support and care as well as different aspects of well-being in the context of acculturation. Both quantitative and qualitative methodologies will be applied. The presented studies will be discussed with respect to similarities and differences between immigrant groups and different acculturation contexts, and implications for policies regarding ageing and migration in Europe will be considered. Further, lacks in current knowledge will be addressed and suggestions for future research activities will be presented.

Intercultural relations in a multicultural context: The case of Luxembourg

Presentation (2015, June)

Regulation of intergenerational family relations between adult children and their ageing parents in the context of migration

Scientific Conference (2014, September)

In the next years, many western societies will be confronted with specific challenges regarding ageing migrants, since an unprecedented number of first generation immigrants are approaching retirement age. Until now, only few studies have concentrated on the regulation of intergenerational family relations of older migrants and their adult children, although migrant families at this stage of the life span might be confronted with very special tasks. In general, the acculturation situation may result in an increased need for intergenerational support due to a smaller social network or fewer sociocultural resources in the host country. Depending on the time spent in the host country, an acculturation gap between the first and the second generation might appear leading to different expectations regarding intergenerational solidarity or to ambivalences, which can affect well-being of family members. The present study will concentrate on two key issues regarding the regulation of adult family relations, first the balancing of autonomy and closeness - a major developmental task in adolescence and emerging adulthood that remains important over the whole life span -, and second the regulation of support exchange and reciprocity that might gain special importance between adult children and their ageing parents. The study reported here is based on a pilot study with n = 31 Luxembourgish and n = 20 Portuguese immigrant mother-daughter-dyads in adolescence and young adulthood. Here we found an acculturation gap between Portuguese mothers and daughters regarding felt obligations toward family members that had a particularly high salience for Portuguese mothers. Further, differences between Luxembourgish and Portuguese families were found in patterns of social support (see Albert, Michels, & Ferring, 2013). The present study will implement a cross-cultural comparison of altogether N = 120 Portuguese and Luxembourgish triads of older parents and their adult children, both living in the Grand-Duchy of Luxembourg. The study addresses three specific research questions: Firstly, we will examine similarities and differences in family values and internalized norms of older parents and their adult children that may indicate a generational gap. Secondly, we will examine how intergenerational relations are regulated with respect to mutual expectations in migrant compared to non-migrant families and if this indicates an acculturation gap. Finally, we will explore how these aspects are related to relationship quality and subjective well-being (SWB) of all involved family members. Results will be discussed in the framework of an integrative model of intergenerational family relations in the light of migration and ageing that might serve as a heuristic to explain similarities and differences between and within cultural groups in adult child-parent relations.

Intergenerational relations between older parents and their adult children: Effect on subjective well-being

Poster (2014, August)

In the near future, many western nations will be confronted with specific issues regarding ageing populations and their physical and psychological well-being. Ageing persons might experience a greater need for intergenerational support and solidarity, especially in the context of migration. The acculturation process may entail an increased intergenerational gap possibly leading to conflicts and ambivalences between family members. This might in turn cause a diminished feeling of their well-being. A cross-cultural comparison is envisaged between Luxemburgish and Portuguese triads of adult children and their older parents living in Luxembourg (N = 120). Participants will report on their mutual relationship quality and subjective well-being by using a standardized questionnaire. Similitudes and differences in mutual expectations of the participants as well as the effects of an intergenerational gap in ideas about intergenerational solidarity on relationship quality and on subjective well-being (SWB) of family members will be examined. Results will be discussed regarding the relevance of intergenerational family relations for subjective well-being in the light of migration and ageing.

Acculturation strategies of young immigrants of Moroccan and Portuguese origin in Belgium: The perception of young Belgian natives.

Poster (2014, July)

The concept of acculturation refers to cultural and psychological changes resulting from the contact between members of multiple cultures. According to Berry (1997), individuals display different attitudes and behaviours in the process of acculturation. Earlier studies have shown that members of host societies and immigrants often prefer the integration strategy, which seems to have most positive outcomes for both host nationals and immigrant communities. The aim of the present study was to analyse the perceptions and preferences of Belgians regarding the acculturation stratégies displayed by two immigrant communities in Belgium, namely Portuguese and Moroccan. A sample of N = 120 Belgian students between the ages of 18 and 29 living in Brussels participated in the present study. Participants were randomly assigned to six different groups of n = 20 persons each: these were presented with six scenarios that differed by a combination of one of Berry’s acculturation strategies (separation, integration and assimilation) with one of two origins of the main character (Portuguese or Moroccan). Participants then filled out a standardized questionnaire measuring their degree of agreement and disagreement to different statements with regard to the displayed acculturation strategy. Analyses showed that Belgian natives rather appreciated integration strategies by immigrants (i.e. conservation of the cultural identity and an appropriation of the host culture’s values at the same time) to assimilation (i.e. own-culture desistance while seeking daily interaction with the majority) or separation strategies (i.e. maintenance of the heritage culture while rejecting contact with the host culture). Furthermore, Belgian participants expressed slightly more positive feelings toward young Portuguese immigrants compared to young Moroccan immigrants, which might be due to a smaller cultural distance between the former two cultures. No interaction effects between displayed acculturation strategy and cultural origin of the scenario’s main character were found. Results are discussed within the framework of Berry’s acculturation strategy model as well as referring to theories of similarity and attraction.

Introduction to the Special Issue Growing up in a multicultural society

in EARA Newsletter - European Association of Research on Adolescence (2014)

The Role of Culture in Social Development Over the Life Span: An Interpersonal Relations Approach

in Online Readings in Psychology and Culture (2014), 6(2),

This article aims to illustrate the role of culture for individual development throughout the life span. First, theoretical approaches how culture affects the ontogenesis is presented, starting from early anthropological to recent eco-cultural and culture-informed approaches. Then, culture-specific conceptualizations of development over the life span are discussed, focusing on development in childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and old age. Finally, we concentrate on selected areas of social development and report on recent studies on subjective theories, transmissions of values, and intergenerational relations. These studies are discussed as aspects of a more extended interpersonal relations approach to development within culture.

Regulation von Eltern-Kind-Beziehungen im Jugendalter und die Rolle von familienbezogenen Selbstwirksamkeitsüberzeugungen

Scientific Conference (2013, September)

Die vorliegende Studie befasst sich mit der Rolle familienbezogener Selbstwirksamkeitsüberzeugungen in den Beziehungen zwischen Jugendlichen und ihren Eltern. Die Stichprobe umfasste N = 46 in Luxemburg lebende Eltern-Jugendlichen-Triaden, d.h. Jugendliche (n = 22 Jungen, n = 24 Mädchen) im Alter zwischen 15 und 20 Jahren sowie deren Mütter und Väter. Mittels eines standardisierten Fragebogens wurden a) elterliche Erziehungsdimensionen (Wärme, Verhaltenskontrolle, psychologische Kontrolle), b) filiale und elterliche Selbstwirksamkeitsüberzeugungen sowie c) positive und negative Emotionen als Indikatoren der Beziehungsqualität zwischen Jugendlichen und ihren Eltern erhoben. Die Analysen zeigten einen positiven Zusammenhang zwischen elterlicher Wärme und filialen Selbstwirksamkeitsüberzeugungen sowie einen negativen Zusammenhang zwischen elterlicher psychologischer Kontrolle und Selbstwirksamkeitsüberzeugungen von Jugendlichen und Eltern. Filiale Selbstwirksamkeitsüberzeugungen waren darüber hinaus mit der Beziehungsqualität zu den Eltern verbunden und mediierten den Zusammenhang zwischen perzipiertem elterlichen Erziehungsverhalten und der Qualität der Eltern-Jugendlichen-Beziehungen. Die Ergebnisse werden unter Berücksichtigung intrafamilialer Prozesse der Beziehungsregulation diskutiert.

Ambivalenz in Eltern-Kind-Beziehungen im Jugendalter: Direkte und indirekte Messung

Scientific Conference (2013, September)

Attitudes towards ageing in elder care

in Psychology & Health (2013, July), 28(SI Supplement: 1), 58-58

Background: The present study examined if attitudes towards ageing depend on own experiences with old and frail persons. Methods: The sample comprised N = 127 participants in the Grand-Duchy of Luxembourg (85 female, 42 male; mean age: M = 46.49, SD = 18.61), subdivided in three groups: professional carers, informal carers, and individuals who had never provided old-age care. Participants were asked to indicate their views about age in general and their expectations about their own ageing by use of a semi-structured questionnaire. Findings: Professional and informal carers indicated a higher age as starting point of old age compared to non-carers. Further, professional carers mentioned more negative and less positive features of old age and had more concrete expectations about their own ageing compared to other participants. Discussion: Results are discussed with regard to the relevance of attitudes towards ageing for individuals’ well-being and for their caregiving for elderly persons.

Grandparent-grandchild relations in a changing society: different types and roles

in Albert, Isabelle; Ferring, Dieter (Eds.) Intergenerational Relations: European Perspectives on Family and Society (2013)

This chapter gives an overview of research regarding grandparent-grandchild relations from childhood to early adulthood. The authors start with reflections on the public image of grandparents and on changes in grandparenthood due to the socio-demographic developments of the last decades. They provide a general description of characteristics of today’s grandparents, summarise research on grandparental types and roles, and discuss functions and meanings of grandparents and grandchildren for each other in different stages of their lives. Further, the applicability of concepts such as intergenerational solidarity and ambivalence for the study of grandparent-grandchild relations is investigated. Also, a prospective view on future developments regarding current issues is given (for example, postponement of parenthood, the role of grandparents as custodial parents, the effects of socioeconomic developments, changed gender roles, the impact of new communication technologies on grandparent-grandchild relations).

Report on the International Workshop "Value of Children and Intergenerational Relations ", March 29th to 30th, 2012, at the University of Konstanz, organized by Gisela Trommsdorff and Bernhard Nauck

in Zeitschrift für Soziologie der Erziehung und Sozialisation = Journal for Sociology of Education and Socialization (2013), 33

Idiozentrismus-Allozentrismus

in Wirtz, Markus (Ed.) Dorsch Lexikon der Psychologie (2013)

Intergenerationale Ambivalenz im Jugend- und jungen Erwachsenenalter – Eine entwicklungspsychologische Perspektive

Scientific Conference (2012, September 19)

Intergenerational value transmission within the family and the role of emotional relationship quality

in Family Science (2012), 3(1), 4-12

Emotional relationship quality of adolescents/emerging adults toward their mothers is addressed: (1) as a transmission belt for the intergenerational transfer of general values and (2) regarding the two-step model of value internalization. The sample consisted of N = 73 dyads of mothers and their 12–25–year-old children (51 daughters, 22 sons) living in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. Mothers and adolescents/emerging adults reported on their general value orientations; in addition, adolescents/emerging adults reported on emotional relationship quality toward mothers. In a subsample of n = 46 mother-adolescent/emerging adult dyads, additional information was available regarding maternal socialization goals, adolescents’/emerging adults’ perceptions of these goals, and adolescents’/emerging adults’ perceived value similarity with mothers. Attachment/closeness of adolescents/emerging adults toward their mothers was related to higher, whereas dislike and worry were related to lower value consensus/congruence. Furthermore, dislike was linked to lower accuracy of value perception, whereas closeness/attachment and worry corresponded with higher perceived similarity to mothers.

Ambivalenz in Eltern-Kind-Beziehungen im Jugend- und jungen Erwachsenenalter: Welche Rolle spielt das elterliche Erziehungsverhalten?

in Abstractband EPSY (2011)

Die Erforschung von Ambivalenz in intergenerationalen Beziehungen hat sich in den letzten Jahren schwerpunktmäßig mit Übergängen in Eltern-Kind-Beziehungen im Erwachsenenalter befasst. Frühere Phasen in Eltern-Kind-Beziehungen wurden hingegen seltener unter diesem Gesichtspunkt betrachtet. Gerade der Prozess der Individuation im Jugend- und jungen Erwachsenenalter ist jedoch von Dynamiken der gleichzeitigen Suche nach Nähe und Abgrenzung bestimmt, die mit widersprüchlichen Emotionen und Handlungstendenzen einhergehen können. Die innerfamiliale Regulation unterschiedlicher Bedürfnisse sollte dabei nicht zuletzt auch vom elterlichen Erziehungsverhalten abhängen. Ziel der vorliegenden Studie ist es, die erlebte Ambivalenz von Jugendlichen und jungen Erwachsenen im Zusammenhang mit dem wahrgenommenen elterlichen Erziehungsverhalten zu untersuchen und zwar unter Berücksichtigung der Frage, ob das Alter der Befragten einen Moderator dieses Zusammenhangs darstellt. Die Stichprobe besteht aus N = 233 luxemburgischen Jugendlichen und jungen Erwachsenen im Alter zwischen 14 und 25 Jahren, die mittels eines standardisierten Fragebogens das wahrgenommene elterliche Erziehungsverhalten (Wärme, psychologische Kontrolle und Verhaltenskontrolle) und ihre erlebte Ambivalenz zu Vater und Mutter einschätzten. Die Analysen zeigten insbesondere einen starken positiven Zusammenhang zwischen elterlicher psychologischer Kontrolle und Ambivalenz über alle Altersgruppen hinweg, wohingegen elterliche Wärme durchweg einen negativen Zusammenhang zum Erleben von Ambivalenz gegenüber beiden Eltern aufzeigte. Hingegen war die mütterliche Verhaltenskontrolle nur bei älteren Jugendlichen und jungen Erwachsenen mit dem Erleben von Ambivalenz gegenüber den eigenen Müttern verbunden; in den Beziehungen zum Vater zeigten sich keine Altersunterschiede im positiven Zusammenhang zwischen Verhaltenskontrolle und Ambivalenz. Die vorliegende Studie liefert damit einen wichtigen Beitrag zur Erforschung von Ambivalenz in früheren Abschnitten der Entwicklung sowie einen weiteren Hinweis darauf, dass insbesondere die mütterliche Verhaltenskontrolle je nach Alter des Jugendlichen unterschiedliche Bedeutungen haben kann. Die Ergebnisse werden vor dem Hintergrund der intrafamilialen Regulation von Beziehungen im Individuationsprozess diskutiert.

Korrelate intergenerationaler familiärer Unterstützung im Erwachsenenalter.

in Von der Forschung zur Praxis: 13. Kongress der DGVM (2011)

Die Frage nach Zuständigkeiten für Pflege und Unterstützung im Alter ist in den letzten Jahren im Zuge des demographischen Wandels immer mehr in das Zentrum des öffentlichen Interesses gerückt und hat zahlreiche Forschungsaktivitäten angeregt. Insbesondere die Erforschung von Eltern-Kind-Beziehungen im Erwachsenenalter hat dabei stark an Bedeutung gewonnen, da ein Großteil an intergenerationeller Unterstützung innerhalb der Familie geleistet wird. In Anlehnung an das Modell der intergenerationalen Solidarität sensu Bengtson (z.B. Bengtson & Roberts, 1991) als theoretischer Bezugsrahmen werden in der vorliegenden Studie unterschiedliche Dimensionen der Solidarität umschrieben und Korrelate intergenerationeller Unterstützung zwischen erwachsenen Kindern und ihren Müttern analysiert. Die Stichprobe bestand aus insgesamt N = 123 Personen im mittleren Erwachsenenalter (davon 31.1% männlich) zwischen 32 und 64 (M = 44.99, SD = 6.68) Jahren, die anhand eines standardisierten Fragebogens über Aspekte der Beziehungen zu ihren Müttern (gegebene und erhaltene Unterstützung, internalisierte Familiennormen, emotionale Beziehungsqualität zur Mutter, Gefühle der Ambivalenz gegenüber der Mutter) befragt wurden. Es lagen demnach Auskünfte über Mütter im Alter zwischen 54 und 93 Jahren (M = 72.58, M = 7.99) vor, von denen die meisten nach Angaben ihrer Kinder über einen relativ guten oder im mittleren Bereich liegenden Gesundheitszustand verfügten, in 16 Fällen war jedoch eine Pflegebedürftigkeit gegeben. Die Ergebnisse zeigten, dass vor allem die emotionale Beziehungsqualität sowie internalisierte Familiennormen den Austausch von Unterstützung bedingen, wohingegen Kontextmerkmale (wie Familienstand, Gesundheitszustand der Mutter; Berufstätigkeit des Kindes) weniger stark mit Aspekten der Solidarität zusammenhingen. Ferner wurde das Auftreten ambivalenter Gefühle im Zusammenhang mit der Unterstützung für Mütter durch eine internalisierte Familienorientierung moderiert: Respondenten, die bei starker Familienorientierung hohe Unterstützungsleistungen erbrachten, berichteten über weniger ambivalente Gefühle als Personen, die bei niedriger Familienorientierung hohe Unterstützungsleistungen erbrachten. Die Ergebnisse werden mit Blick auf mögliche Voraussagen für Situationen späterer Pflegebedürftigkeit und unter Berücksichtigung intrafamilialer Prozesse der intergenerationellen Beziehungsregulation diskutiert.

Psychologische Ambivalenz in Eltern-Kind-Beziehungen: Entwicklung und Teststatistische Überprüfung eines Instrumentes zur direkten Konstruktabbildung

in Focus Diagnostica (2011), 57(1), 39-51

Besides the intergenerational solidarity paradigm, the concept of psychological ambivalence has emerged as a key dimension for the description of intergenerational relations. Psychological ambivalence is defined as the concomitant occurrence of contradictory motives, emotions, and action tendencies towards one person. The present study aimed at the development of a Questionnaire for the Measurement of Ambivalence in Parent-Child-Relations in Adulthood. It comprises k = 23 items that are available in a maternal and in a paternal version. Exploratory and confirmatory analyses were carried out on a sample of N = 210 young and middle-aged adults, and showed different two-factor structures for the two versions. Further, a short version of the questionnaire was developed that allows for comparisons between parental relationships. Examination of the psychometric properties of the scales revealed sound reliability. Further, first substantive evidence for the criterion validity of the scales is reported.

Acculturation of Portuguese immigrants in Luxembourg: Do value orientations of Portuguese and Luxembourgish mothers and daughters converge or diverge?

in Proceedings of IACCP Regional Conference (2011)

In acculturation research, the convergence/divergence in value orientations of immigrants and host nationals as well as the question of an acculturation gap between first- and second generation immigrants are important issues. The present study examines similarities and differences between first- and second generation immigrants compared to host nationals in a sample of n = 51 Luxembourgish and Portuguese mother-daughter dyads living in Luxembourg who were interviewed with a standardized questionnaire regarding (a) value orientations, (b) family norms, and (c) self-construal. Controlling for the psychometric properties of the national groups, mean comparisons indicated an acculturation gap regarding family norms with Portuguese daughters being more similar to their Luxembourgish counterparts than to their mothers, whereas both Portuguese generations rated conservation values higher and an independent self-construal lower than Luxembourgish participants. Results are discussed in a theoretical framework of value change in acculturation considering the role of salience of different value contents.

Patterns of relationship regulation: German and French adolescents' perceptions with regard to their mothers.

in Family Science (2011), 2(1), 58-67

Following a person-centered approach, the present study focuses on inter- and intracultural similarities and differences in patterns of relationship regulation by adolescents with regard to their mothers in a sample of 153 French and 154 German adolescents. Starting from theoretical assumptions of individuation in adolescence as the process of balancing autonomy and relatedness, a classification approach was applied providing four theoretically derived clusters of relationship regulation, namely “harmonious,” “tense,” “primary,” and “secondary” relationship regulation patterns. Countries did not differ in numbers of adolescents in the “harmonious” and “tense” clusters. More patterns of “primary” relationship regulation were found between German adolescents and their mothers, whereas French families had a higher prevalence of “secondary” regulation patterns. Clusters were validated by maternal parenting (from adolescents’ perspectives) and adolescents’ optimism. Results on patterns of regulation are discussed in a theoretical framework of intrafamily processes of relationship regulation and implications for family functioning are addressed.

Activities and their associations with state and trait components of well-being in old age

in Zeitschrift fuer Gerontologie und Geriatrie (2010), 43(S1), 88-88

Patterns of intergenerational support and reciprocity

in Proceedings of the XIV European Conference on Developmental Psychology ECDP. Bologna, Italy: Medimond. (2010)

Patterns of Emotional Relations and Intergenerational Support in Families: A Three-Generation-Perspective

in Gerontologist (2010), 50(Supplement 1), 110-110

Intergenerational support and life satisfaction: a comparison of Chinese, Indonesian, and German elderly mothers.

in Journal of Cross-Cultural Psychology (2010), 41(5-6), 706-722

The exchange of support between generations is a fundamental feature of intergenerational relationships. Although most studies have concentrated on the impact of social support on the receiver, effects on subjective well-being of the provider of support have been studied less often. Given cultural differences in the norms and values of intergenerational relationships, the present study compared samples from rural and urban China, Indonesia, and Germany. The results showed that in the different cultural contexts elderly mothers’ well-being was differently related to help that they provided to their adult daughters. The results are discussed from a culture-informed perspective on intergenerational relationships.

‘‘Forever young’’: On the relationship between subjective and objective age

in Paper presented at the XIXth IAGG World Congress of Gerontology and Geriatrics. Paris, France (2009)

Zur Vorhersage intergenerationeller Ambivalenz in Familienbeziehungen: Die Rolle von gegenseitiger Unterstützung und Familiennormen

Poster (2009)

Patterns of emotional relations and intergenerational support in families: A Three-Generation-Perspective

in Paper to be presented at the 63rd Annual Scientific Meeting of the Gerontological Society of America (GSA), New Orleans (USA). (2009)

Patterns of intergenerational support and reciprocity in Luxembourg

Scientific Conference (2009)

Background. Along with demographic changes regarding increasing life expectancies and lower fertility rates, members of different generations within the family spend more and more life time together. In line with these developments, intergenerational relations gain importance with the exchange of support and reciprocity being key issues. Referring to theoretical models of intergenerational solidarity, the present study aims to examine reciprocity of intergenerational support exchange as well as its relation to relationship quality and family norms in Luxembourg. Method. A sample of 31 three-generation families (adolescent daughters, mothers, and grandmothers) with Luxembourgish origin as well as 21 two-generation families with Portuguese origin (adolescent daughters and mothers) living in Luxembourg was studied by means of a standardized questionnaire measuring perceived support provision and reception, relationship quality as well as adherence to family norms. Results. In the first step, patterns of emotional and instrumental support exchange were identified and different generations and cultural groups were compared. Analyses showed that while most participants perceived to give more than to receive regarding emotional support, different patterns occurred with respect to instrumental support: In Portuguese families, the exchange of this kind of support was perceived as balanced, but in Luxembourgish families, middle generation was clearly perceived as net provider by all three generations. In the second step, an indirect measure of reciprocity was applied in order to study the relation between support balance and relationship quality as well as family norms. These analyses underlined the importance of reciprocity especially for the quality of intergenerational relations in Luxembourgish families. Conclusions. Results are discussed with respect to intrafamilial processes underlying the regulation of intergenerational relations by taking into account cross-cultural differences in value orientations and family norms.

Network structures, perceived support exchange and life appraisal: A comparison of home dwelling elderly and nursing home residents

in International Journal of Psychology (2008), 43

Value orientations and solidarity in intergenerational family relations

in Invited talk at the Colloquia Psychologica, Sminatio internazionale. Athenaeum Center for Family Studies and Research – Catholic University of Milan, Milan, Italy. (2008)

Intergenerational Support in Families: On the Regulative Function of Justice Evaluations

Scientific Conference (2008)

Transmission of values and intergenerational Solidarity in Luxembourg

in Presented at the 4th Congress of the European Society on Family Relations. Jyväskylä, Finland. (2008)

Regulation of subjective well-being in the elderly

in Paper presented at the Workshop “Well-being of the elderly”, ESF Forward Looks project “Ageing, Health and Pensions in Europe” (2008)