ìAs far as I am aware, there is no other scholarly book on adult mother/daughter relationships, particularly one that incorporates data from pairs of mothers and daughters...I believe that the contents provide useful material for instructors, researchers, and therapists alike.î - Rosemary Blieszner, PhD Professor of Gerontology and Family Studies Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University The mother/daughter tie is one that persists well past childhood and it takes on unique characteristics as daughter enter midlife and mohers enter old age. Incorporating vivid descriptions by mothers and daughters about their relationships, this book addresses both the rewards and the costs that mothers and daughters incur in maintaining their relationships into old age. For psychologists, gerontologists, and sociologists, as well as academics and researchers in womenís and family studies.

The mother-daughter tie takes on unique characteristics as daughters enter midlife and mothers enter old age. Incorporating vivid descriptions by mothers and daughters about their relationships, this book addresses both the rewards and the difficulties mothers and daughters experience in maintaining their relationships into old age. Based on interviews with 48 mothers over age 70 and their adult daughters, Dr. Fingerman begins with an overview of this relationship, which, she points out, can be distinguished from other social ties by the strength of the mother-daughter bond. Next she discusses the positive features of this bond and various theories about its social and psychological nature. This discussion is followed by an examination of problems encountered between mothers and daughters. The last section looks at reactions of mothers and daughters to tensions, conflicts, communication problems, and other difficulties. This excellent study will be of interest not only to researchers in women''s and family studies, but any mother and daughter.

We are used to having our parents help us, but how do we handle it when the tables are turned and our parents are the ones who need help? Declining health, financial needs, divorce, relational issues—what’s an adult child’s role when their parents are struggling? Counselor Jim Newheiser understands the many types of challenges adults may face ...

An exploration of the life-affirming potential contained within the mother-daughter relationship for daughters in the middle of their lives analyzes the difficulties and joys of having an aging mother, giving down-to-earth ideas for building this essential connection. Simultaneous.

A much-needed perspective on how to mother difficult adult children while balancing one’s own needs. Difficult brings to life the conflicts that arise for mothers who are confronted with the unexpected, burdensome, and even catastrophic dependencies of their adult children associated with mental illness, substance use, or chronic unemployment. Through real stories of mothers and their challenging adult children, this book offers relatable, provocative, and, at times, shocking illustrations of the excruciating maternal dilemma: Which takes precedence—the needs of the mother or of the distressed adult child? With guidance for finding social support, staying safe, engaging in self-care, and helping the adult child, Difficult is a compassionate resource for those living in a family situation which too many keep secret and allows readers to see that they are not alone.