My Family, My Self: Genealogy, a Tool for Personal Growth in Midlife
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Authors
Shea, Joan Borden
Issue Date
1990
Type
Thesis
Language
en
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
The intent of this study was to research the psychological value of genealogy for six middle-aged men and women. Genealogy is the study of ancestry or family lineage. Currently, genealogy is one of the top three hobbies in the country. The reason for its popularity may be due an increase in the experience of rootlessness brought about by rapid social change. The findings demonstrated that genealogy is a significant tool for increasing connectedness and communication with nuclear and/or extended family. Over half of the participants reported an improvement in their relationships with kin. The data suggested that genealogy may be a tool for developing emotional autonomy. The findings further indicated a strong connection between beginning genealogy and the phenomena surrounding death. A majority of the participants began genealogy following the death of parents or friends and/or the diagnosis of a life-threatening illness. Significant differences between men and women in this study revealed that the men were using genealogy to reunite branches of their families, while the women discovered that genealogy helped them gain a greater sense of identity. Areas worthy of further research with larger populations include investigation of the role genealogy plays in reconnecting with kin, developing emotional autonomy, and dealing with death.