Facing Challenges
Does Grandparenting Influence Social Values of Individualism-Collectivism?: A Longitudinal Examination of the Onset, Extent, and Function of Grandparenthood
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Merril Silverstein, Martin Lakomý
In this paper we examine whether grandparenting—defined as becoming a grandparent, change in the number of grandchildren, and caring for grandchildren—precipitates change in values of individualism-collectivism. Grandparenting has mainly been described as altruistically motivated with the inherent goal of promoting the well-being of the youngest generation in the family. However, grandparenting may also promote altruism by precipitating change in fundamental social values that reduce the importance of perusing self-interested goals in favor of building broader social solidarities. We address this question by linking micro family dynamics related to grandparenting to change in values using data from the Longitudinal Study of Generations. We empirically link change in the individualism-collectivism scale of the Rokeach Values Survey to the onset of grandparenthood, subsequent birth of additional grandchildren, and involvement of grandparents in grandchild care and support. Hypotheses propose a shift from individualism (e.g., the importance of personal accomplishments) to collectivism (e.g., importance of family and religious connections) in three cohorts of grandparents between the years 1985-2022. The results shed light on the connection between engagement in private family roles and valuation of solidarities that have eroded in the neoliberal order, contributing to anomie and reduced psychological wellbeing..
Not Dead Yet: Engaging Young Adults in Advance Care Planning Using Continuity and Successful Aging Theoretical Frameworks
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Chesney Ward
Although young adults tend to have a positive attitude toward advance care planning in the United States, few actually engage in the act of completing advanced directives. Young adults are more than capable of discussing end-of-life wishes, and with the exposure to early death due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important to have these discussions earlier in one’s life rather than wait until older adulthood. This conceptual paper utilizes the theoretical frameworks of successful aging and continuity theory to examine perspectives of younger adults’ attitudes on end-of-life planning and propose strategies for engaging this population in end-of-life conversations. Preliminary results from the literature show that young adults are ready and willing to engage in end-of-life planning discussions; and facilitating these discussions through innovative approaches will enhance the quality of life. Over time, through a pilot-longitudinal study (that this conceptual paper is the foundation for), we expect to find that young adults felt they aged successfully to middle and older adulthood.
Our Workforce - We Can Curse the Darkness or, Light a Candle : The Critical Importance of Creating Psychological Safety in the Workforce View Digital Media
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Arif Padamshi
The absence of psychological safety in the workplace has a direct impact on the quality of care provided by staff, and received by residents/patients. In today’s challenging financial and economic environment, staff often have to juggle the demands of caring for children, aging parents, multiple jobs, and navigating through multiple generations in the workforce. Stress in the workforce is extremely high and the slightest tension can create sparks and conflict. Leaders play a critical role in ensuring psychological safety in the workforce, and there are a myriad of ways leaders do this. Deep listening, acting on concerns, ensuring staff have the right tools to perform their work, addressing conflict, and harassment/bullying, are examples of concrete things leaders can and must do. Demonstrating to staff that they are trusted and that leader’s care for them is vital, and, this must be balanced with responsibility and accountability…i.e. we must move away from a culture of blame and fault. To support staff, and create psychological safety, leaders must first and foremost work on centering themselves. This requires a high degree of self-awareness and emotional/social intelligence to guide others. This study focuses on what is required of leaders today, and how creating a psychologically safe workplace where employees feel valued, and cared for, matters. This translates into caring and compassionate care for our residents/patients, their families, and raises job satisfaction.
