Mediation across generations: A tri-generational perspective

The meaning of mediation across generations was examined qualitatively in 20 grandparent-parent-grandchild triads. Parental mediation was the most dominant type of intergenerational mediation. However, evidence was found also regarding grandparent's and grandchild's mediation. The role of the mother as a mediator was recognized and accepted by all generations, although it was not always accepted happily by the mothers. Our results showed that grandparent's mediation is present in intact families, but mostly in cases of family crisis. Finally, grandchild's mediation emerged especially when the bond between the grandparent and the parent was weak or problematic. Findings of this study provide a first insight in examining intergenerational mediation from a tri-generational approach.