Reminiscence and the relationship between young and old

Journal/Book: Z Gerontol Geriatrie. 1997; 30: C/O Springer-Verlag, Heidelberger Platz 3, 1000 Berlin 33, Germany. Dr Dietrich Steinkopff Verlag. 354-361.

Abstract: In order to analyse the function of reminiscence in old age, group discussions were conducted with old people in order to ascertain collective points of orientation and shared knowledge. The points of orientation prompted by the discussion reveal that old people relate to their own past in a diverse set of ways closely bound up with the way they orientate themselves with respect to the concept of youth. A stereotyped recollection of one's youth is associated with a feeling of contempt towards the young generation of today; a more balanced recollection of one's own youth is bound up with an intergenerational orientation, while the complete absence of a need for reminiscence is bound up with an exclusive orientation towards one's own age-group and everyday cares.

Note: Article Muthesius D, Wissensch Zentrum Berlin Sozialforsch, Reichpietschufer 50, D-10785 Berlin, GERMANY

Keyword(s): reminiscence; life review; generational relationship; biographical orientation

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