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Making intergenerational connections: an evidence review. What are they, why do they matter and how to make more of them
- Authors:
- DRURY Lisbeth, ABRAMS Dominic, SWIFT Hannah J.
- Publishers:
- Age UK, University of Kent. Centre for the Study of Group Processes
- Publication year:
- 2017
- Pagination:
- 74
- Place of publication:
- London
This review looks at the evidence on positive intergenerational contact and the ways that people in different age groups might come into contact with each other. It looks at what positive intergenerational connections are, why they matter and how to make more of them. It also reviews evaluations of intergenerational contact programmes to see what works and puts forward guidelines for best practice. The review, carried out by researchers from Centre for the Study of Group Processes at the University of Kent, covers three main areas. The general psychology of contact between groups (Intergroup Contact Theory), covering the different types of contact that can occur and the psychological processes that are engaged. A review of intergenerational contact research, covering the effects of contact on attitudes and relationships between different age groups. Lastly, a review of intergenerational contact programmes, which focuses mainly on children or young people and older adults. Key findings from the review show that positive intergenerational contact between younger and older adults successfully reduces ageism directed at older people and that the most powerful type of ‘positive’ contact is intergenerational friendships. Conditions which increase the likelihood of successful intergenerational contact programmes include: equal status, cooperating towards common goals, institutional support and personal contact are conditions. The review also sets out suggested policy implications for business, education, and health and social care. (Edited publisher abstract)