Family relationship histories, intergenerational relationship quality, anddepressive affect among rural elderly people

Based on a sample of matched adult children and aging parents in the rural Midwest, this study examined the effects of family relationship history on depressive symptoms among elderly parents. The study used reports from both adult children and aging parents regarding intergenerational affectional s olidarity and relationship strain. Aging parents reported levels of depress ed affect. Adult children's recalled early relationships with their parents were associated with elderly parents' reports of depressed affect through the effects of early family relationships on contemporary relationships. Re ports of early relationships and contemporary relationships were separated by 5 years. it is suggested that family relationship characteristics persis t across time and that family relationship patterns affect the abilities of family members to negotiate support for elderly parents.