Understanding Empathic and Cooperative Intergenerational Relationships: A New Theoretical Framework. Issue 4 (1st October 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Pieris, Dilshan
• Is Part Of: Journal of intergenerational relationships. Volume 18:Issue 4(2020)
• Page Start: 451
• Page End: 464
• Publication Date: 2020-10-01
• Subjects: Psychology -- music -- empathy -- cooperation -- theory; Intergenerational relations -- Periodicals; 306.87405
• DOI: 10.1080/15350770.2020.1723775
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1535-0770

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The population and age of North American older adults is increasing faster than ever, making it harder for children to form meaningful relationships with them. Thus, programs like the Hamilton Intergenerational Music Program aim to bridge this divide. During this program, children seem to form empathic and cooperative bonds with older adults during their visits to long-term care homes. In this article, I describe a theoretical framework that draws from existing theories in social psychology to not only explain this phenomenon, but to also provide practical suggestions that other facilitators can implement in their intergenerational programs for optimal delivery.