Family and
friendship connections and relationships are developed early in life and are
very important. This chapter focuses on how these relationships are significant
and how it is very important to have a strong relationship with someone who is
aging or becoming ill. According to the book, “Transition evens such as
widowhood, retirement, remarriage, or a child’s departure punctuate the life
course” (Hillier and Barrow, 2011). The life events are ever-changing and
pertain to the adult’s role later in life. Examples include newlyweds having
their first baby and then having a hard time adjusting to their new schedule.
Another example might include an individual who just retired who is having a
difficult time adjusting to all their new free time. Elders also play a crucial
role in the each of their families. Hillier and Barrow explain that “Grandparents
can have a huge impact on the developing child’s understanding of the world and
his or her place in it” (p. 152). Siblings, like grandparents have an impact in
the development of each other’s life. The book describes that “Although
siblings may cause problems for one another at any time in the life course,
they can also extend support to one another in social environment that does not
always foster the development of social bonds” (Hillier and Barrow, 152). Many
older adults have a sibling and the bonds between siblings can last a life time
even though they may get into some arguments when they are younger. Whether one
is old or young, social relationships and bonds are necessary for the family
life cycle and this chapter explained these bonds that individuals have with
others.
I also reviewed Chapter 6 this week because I found it so interesting! I like that you covered all major family relationships and how each can impact the other at different stages in life. Grandparents I think are capable of playing a huge role in their grandchildrens' lives; they are able to teach them and influence them in ways parents are not able to do, simply because the parents have yet to live as long as a grandparent does, to witness the outcomes of some long-term successes and mistakes. Siblings like you said are equally important as we age. Often time, as spouses, peers and other friends the same age pass away, there are siblings that remain as emotional support as well as someone who understands you on a level like no other. Like you mentioned, family bonds are necessary to the family life cycle, but how these bonds are formed and carried out often depend on the elder generations to teach and shape the family as it grows.
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