Two-Generational Perspective of Postdivorce Relationships in 16 Icelandic Families

Abstract

This article presents the results from a research study on children and divorce exploring the experiences, views, and values of parents and grandparents. Participants were randomly selected. Long interviews were conducted with 45 family members in 16 families. Parents were characterized into 3 categories according to custody, style of parental cooperation, and emphasis on the child as reflected in different arrangements, family coherence, and awareness of the child's needs. Grandparents expressed worries regarding new family transformations and children's well-being. The discussion is related to familial development in the Nordic countries and the consequences of an emerging fragmentation and plurality of cohabitation alternatives for children.

Keywords:

• child welfare
• custody
• divorce
• intergenerational contact