Families with young children. Parenting responsibilities and boundaries are formed. Grandparenting entitlement and obligations are negotiated with the two families of origin. Families with adolescents. Adolescent family members actively redefine the boundaries within the family unit.
Adolescents test their adult obligations and entitlements.
The parent and child relationship should move from intimacy to respect. Parents should meet their intimacy needs through a strengthened spousal relationship. Launching children and the family at midlife. Responsibility and control is given to the offspring. The mid-life adults change their care focus to their aging parents.