Multigenerational Relationships and Nuclear Family Functioning

Abstract

Bowen theory hypothesizes that the functioning of families is enhanced with viable emotional contact between its multigenerational members. This study generally supported the hypothesis. Open relationships with the multigenerational family, contact with cousins, and knowledge of multigenerational family facts were associated with less symptomatic nuclear family functioning. The participants' openness with their parents also correlated with their openness with the multigenerational family.