Transmissão da herança material: uma tarefa normativa das famílias envelhecidas

Abstract

The transmission of material inheritance is an expected event in later life families, reflecting on the dynamics and quality of family relationships. However, it is a subject scarcely discussed in the psychological and family literature. This article presents an exploratory study on the transmission of material inheritance, addressing it from the family life cycle perspective. Methodology is based in semi-structured interviews applied to three focus group consisting of donors, heirs and professionals involved with older people, to understand their experiences around material inheritance. Results suggest that the transmission of material inheritance emerges as a normative task of the family life cycle, coupled with the elder’s development. Task combines socio-economic conditions, family processes and dynamics and confronts family with significant emotional and relational challenges. Its resolution enhances both individual and family integrity in later life.