A comparative study between Chinese and Finns : communication accommodation and values exchange in grandparent and grandchild communication

Abstract

This study explores differences and similarities between grandparent-grandchild (GP-GC) communication in China and Finland. GP-GC communication and relationship has been understudied for decades since scholars in family communication domain have been focusing on relationships among other family members. The culture of the residents of China, the origin of Confucianism, is isolated from that of other East Asian nations. In view of dramatic socioeconomic development, examining how the traditional GP-GC relationship within the family has changed is valuable. On the other hand, Finland possesses a culture with contrasting traits. Characterized by individualism, Finns are prone to focus primarily on one’s individual goals. However, Finns are said to have typically “Asian” communication styles, such as being modest, softspoken, and introverted, while using little body language. Comparing Chinese and Finnish GP-GC communication can yield not only knowledge of communication styles and situation-specific nuances in GP-GC relationships, but also contribute to generating practically reciprocal experiences. In the present study, three major topics were addressed: 1) employing a comparative approach in reference to quality of GP-GC communication; 2) application of accommodation strategies and their underlying motivations; and 3) values exchanged between grandparents and grandchildren in two selected contexts. Semi-structured and in-depth interviews were conducted, involving sixteen participants comprising four Chinese and four Finnish GP-GC dyads. Results revealed that GP-GC communication in Chinese and Finnish families possess more similarities than differences; and that GP-GC relationships are positive and satisfactory in general.