The Trajectory of Intergenerational Family Relationships and Its Determinants from the Perspective of Representatives of Four Generations. the Case of Poland

Intergenerational solidarity can be defined as a sense of mutual responsibility among individuals belonging to different generations, manifested in their willingness to support each other. The existence of solidarity is contingent upon the prior existence of intergenerational ties, which may be defined as a sense of biological, cultural, or economic connectivity with individuals belonging to other generations (Szukalski, 2017). The nature of intergenerational relations is subject to change (Sztompka, 2007), which is conditioned by the social, economic and political processes occurring within individual societies.

This paper will present the trajectory of intergenerational family relations based on the results of qualitative research conducted in 2022 among representatives of four generations: the Traditionalist generation, the Baby Boomers, Generation X and Generation Y. Using the memories of old age as recalled by respondents from their childhood, the paper will discuss how intergenerational relations have changed over the years (from the 1930s-40s, when the oldest respondents were children, to the 1990s). In particular, attention will be paid to the issue of the duty/ responsibility to provide care for dependent older family members. I will highlight the factors that, according to the respondents, have led to a transformation in intergenerational relations, as shaped by the distinctive socio-political context of Poland.

The paper will also present an analysis of the respondents' perceptions of the current state of intergenerational solidarity in Poland. To what extent do younger generations perceive a responsibility and willingness to provide care for dependent older family members? Does this responsibility/obligation give rise to potential tensions which strain intergenerational relations? What are the respondents' views on the institutions responsible for the care of dependents, such as nursing homes?

The aim of the paper is therefore to discuss the issue of intergenerational solidarity and its historical and current conditions, using the example of Polish society.