Abstract
The impact of the pandemic on intergenerational relationships in families was significant. Some families were forced to live apart and communicate only through digital media, while others experienced more intense face-to-face interaction. These changes affected family cohesion, coping with challenges, mental health and quality of life. Religious families also experienced changes in relationships and family cohesion. Conflicts over policies often erupted along ideological and religious lines. However, early US studies also show that religion could have a positive impact on family relationships during the pandemic. As part of my doctoral research, I am therefore investigating the extent to which intergenerational family cohesion in Christian families in Switzerland differed from that in secular families during the pandemic. As part of my dissertation, I am conducting an exploratory study of older adults (65+) and their intergenerational family contacts outside the household during the pandemic in Switzerland. The target group includes both secular and Christian individuals. 24 adults who are part of an intergenerational couple were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide and elicitation elements such as photographs. The interview transcripts were analysed using qualitative content analysis with deductive and inductive categories. Preliminary results show that there is no significant difference in family cohesion between Christian and secular families, although religion may strengthen cohesion in Christian families. My dissertation is part of the project ‘Intergenerational Cohesion during COVID-19 and Beyond’ of the National Research Programme 80 ‘COVID-19 in Society’.
Details
Presentation Type
Theme
Religious Community and Socialization
KEYWORDS
INTERGENERATIONAL COHESION, FAMILY, COHESION, COVID-19, PANDEMIC, SWITZERLAND, CHRISTIAN, SECULAR, QUALITATIVE
