Potential Barriers and Benefits to Intergenerational Interaction Between Strangers

Abstract

Despite close proximity, younger and older generations rarely develop meaningful connections outside of family ties. This is reinforced by social norms, stereotypes about age, technological shifts, and internal fears. As a result people miss opportunities for a range of benefits from shared stories, finding common ground, to general connection rooted in empathy. The present research examines the benefits and barriers of intergenerational interactions through the examination of various sources based on strangers and cross-generation connection. In this synthesis of literature, the benefits of these connections suggest they may increase confidence in conversation ability, reduce loneliness, and lead to a greater sense of belonging. Simultaneously, these benefits come with the barriers of structural environments, societal norms, and the psychological barriers. These findings have implications for community interventions for the promotion of connection, yet more research within this topic should be prompted for the furthering of intergenerational relationships in our community.