1. On balance, should the trend toward verticalization of the family system have a positive or negative effect on the aged? Explain your reasoning.
2. Studies have shown that men derive greater emotional support from their marriages than do women. As gender roles change over time, would you expect the gender difference in perceived emotional support to change? Why or why not?
3. When couples divorce, they must decide who will be responsible for the care of their children. Should they also agree on who will care for their parents, if the need arises?
4. Should aging grandparents who are raising their grandchildren receive some help from social welfare agencies? If so, what kind of help would be appropriate?
5. What happened to the aged when the social support system breaks down?
6. What can be done to strengthen the social support systems of elderly people who are slowly becoming isolated?
7. We learned in our textbook that many generations of American workers are having trouble saving for retirement. Why do you think we have such a problem saving our money? Discuss your reason in detail.