Being a part of the sandwich generation is a situation that has a crucial impact on human development. The person who has the role of taking care of both the small children and the elderly parents meets multiple challenges while managing all the responsibilities simultaneously. According to researchers, this can affect one’s mental well-being (Gillett & Crisp, 2017). There are three generations included in this situation, and it affects all of them. The children may feel a sense of negligence since they crave attention from their parents from a very young age (Broderick & Blewitt, 2014). On the other hand, the relationships between caretakers and elderly parents may become inadequate due to the switch of roles and generational differences.
The other aspect of developmental difficulties is portrayed by the caretaker’s inability to be as efficient in social or professional situations. Often, people that are a part of the sandwich generations find it hard to be as involved with their work-related activities as they once used to be (Steiner & Fletcher, 2017). Examining this topic is essential since individuals who are caught in such situations find difficulties in time management, resources, and outside help.
There are negative and positive aspects to being a caretaker for two different generations. While it is time-consuming and may have an emotional toll on people who look after their children and parents at the same time, it is also a rewarding experience that gives a sense of pride and fulfillment. Either way, the sandwich generation’s development directly correlates with the situation they are experiencing. This is why the topic is detrimental in terms of human development.
References
Broderick, P. C., & Blewitt, P. (2014). The life span: human development for helping professionals. Pearson Education.
Gillett, J. E., & Crisp, D. A. (2017). Examining coping style and the relationship between stress and subjective well-being in Australia’s ‘sandwich generation.’ Australasian Journal on Ageing, 36(3), 222–227. Web.
Steiner, A. M., & Fletcher, P. C. (2017). Sandwich Generation Caregiving: A Complex and Dynamic Role. Journal of Adult Development, 24(2), 133–143. Web.