ABSTRACT

There is a paradox in the relationship between parent and child especially after the early years of life. On the one hand, the intergenerational dyad is the prototype of supportive human interaction. Warmth, affirmation, helping, sharing: These dimensions of mutual involvement have long been regarded as crucial to the well-being of children, whatever their age, as well as for their parents. On the other hand, the relationship between generations over time can reflect the most negative dimensions of social interactions. Power, guilt, obdurateness, conflict: These dimensions also characterize the parent–child relationship, particularly after childhood, and are the source of frustration to well-being of both parents and children throughout the life course.