In qualitative research on the topic of intergenerational coexistence in trigenerational families, I have highlighted important processes in family dynamics. I wanted to find out in what manner members of three different generations in the family display mutual solidarity; meanwhile, I paid close attention to the existence of conflicts between them. With the selection of these two topics, I called attention to the existence of a paradox in families, as it is highlighted by a large body of literature. An important finding for social work was related to exploring the needs for changes in relations among members and the necessary help to fulfil those needs. In the theoretical part of the diploma thesis, I covered the topics of intergenerational coexistence and solidarity; moreover, I highlighted the urgent problem of regression and weakening of this phenomenon. I also attend to the importance of communication and conflicts together with a description of the forms of mutual assistance and support. Finally, I illustrated the role of social work in supporting the family and in strengthening intergenerational coexistence.
In the second part I have displayed the findings obtained based on qualitative data analysis. Four trigeneration families from the municipality of Središče ob Dravi presented their experiences of family life. I have discovered that all family members attribute a great importance to the family. Regarding the reciprocity of assistance, it has been shown that the old generation is merely a recipient, but not the aid provider. Most often, family members exchange help with household tasks and emotional support. The time spent together makes the fast-paced life difficult, especially for the young and middle generation, who are most active. The existing reciprocal conflicts are mostly perceived as negative, where the young and middle generation attributes the greatest cause of conflict to the elderly and their nature. It has showed that in the interest of change, the communication needs, and emotional needs predominate, the fact that was pointed out by the younger generation. Additionally, the young generation is the only one who sees the contribution of expert assistance as a solution to achieve the desired changes. Meanwhile, the old generation is certain that changes are not imperative and in need of any special assistance. For the proposals, I focused mostly on strengthening intergenerational coexistence at local level in the framework of intergenerational centers and intergenerational meetings. Additionally, I advise possible improvements for further research on trigeneration families, where it would be interesting to study those families in which the middle generation is unemployed and compare how unemployment affects family relationships.
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