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International Journal of
Population Studies Multigenerational evaluation of globalization

However, Cont-G has a different view on respect, believing Globalization, with its rapid spread of information
that it should be earned rather than given out of fear. and cultural influences, has brought about significant
These results indicate that younger generations practice changes in the communication patterns of Indian families.
filial piety differently, leading older generations to ponder Pluralistic communication, characterized by open
whether youngsters generally lack respect for their elders. discussions, diverse opinions, and democratic decision-
making, has become more common in Indian families
Another theme from the study is the development of
a greater sense of autonomy among the young generation compared to previous times. This shift is indicated by an
increased freedom of expression for children’s opinions and
in various aspects such as education, career choices, ideas. Conventionally, communication patterns in Indian
lifestyle, relationships, and decision-making. They are families were often hierarchical and authoritarian, with
empowered to pursue their interests, passions, and goals, parents or elders making most of the decisions without
which may not necessarily align with traditional societal seeking input from children (Mishra & Satish, 2018).
expectations or norms. The influence of globalization
and exposure to different cultures and ideas has likely Globalization has also impacted the relationship
contributed to this development of autonomy among between grandparents and grandchildren. Interestingly,
the young generation in India. Many young Indians now grandparents in the present study indicated that they feel
choose to live independently, away from their families. On closer to their grandchildren than to their own children.
the other hand, some researchers argue that despite the Although the younger generation loves their grandparents,
rising individualism, Indian society uniquely allows both they have difficulties in being close to their grandparents
individualism and collectivism to co-exist (Sinha et al., due to differences in beliefs and viewpoints on how they
2001) see the world.
Participants of all three generations reported that With the advent of modernization, urbanization, and
women’s participation in the workforce is increasing in the changing societal norms, there are concerns about the
nation. The Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS, carried decreasing quality of family relationships in India. One
out during July 2021 – June 2022) reported an increase of the factors implicated in this decline is the changing
of 6.5% in women’s labor force participation (from 22.9% communication patterns within families. Traditional forms
in the financial year 2017 – 2018 to 29.4% in 2021 – 2022 of family communication, often characterized by face-to-
[Dhamija & Chawla, 2023]). Participants also noted that face interactions, extended conversations, and frequent
women’s desire for financial independence may have gatherings, have been shifting to more modern forms
contributed to this increased participation. Many women of communication, such as text messages, social media,
desire to contribute to the family income, pursue their and virtual interactions (Mahmoud & Shafik, 2020). In
career aspirations, and gain financial autonomy. This desire traditional Indian families, close physical proximity,
for financial independence is often fueled by the need to frequent touch, and expressions of affection among family
break free from traditional gender roles and expectations, members were standard. The increased physical distance
enhance self-esteem, and improve social status. Women’s among family members may have resulted in reduced
financial contributions enable families to invest in opportunities for physical intimacy and expressions of
education, healthcare, and other essential needs, thereby affection, impacting the emotional bond among family
improving the overall well-being of the family, including members.
children, elderly parents, and other dependents. There has been a noticeable shift from strict parenting
As previous studies (e.g., Hondagneu-Sotelo [2003]) to authoritative parenting in India in recent years. Strict
have shown, Indian families are becoming more egalitarian parenting, which often emphasizes conformity, obedience,
toward gender roles due to globalization. Several factors and adherence to cultural norms and traditions, has been
have contributed to this shift, including increased women’s practiced in India (Sondhi, 2017). However, with increasing
workforce participation, changing family dynamics, exposure to global influences and Westernization, parents
exposure to global ideas and values, and education and in India are now more accepting of their children’s
empowerment. Men are increasingly involved in household individuality, self-expression, and autonomy. Reflecting
chores, child-rearing, and caregiving. At the same time, authoritative parenting, they encourage children to express
women are taking on more active roles in decision-making, their opinions, make independent choices, and pursue
financial management, and career pursuits, leading to their interests and passions.
more egalitarian gender roles within families. Access to The concept of marriage and mate selection has
higher education and exposure to foreign cultures have undergone major changes. All generations converge
likely facilitated this change. in their opinion that the number of love marriages has

Volume 11 Issue 2 (2025) 86 https://doi.org/10.36922/ijps.2404