Chapter 6: Deprivation and Transfers between Three Generations: A Regional Analysis Across Europe

In times of rising inequality and poverty, the family is one of the most important ‘fall back’ option for individuals at risk of deprivation. The family provides a safety net throughout life, and intergenerational transfers can be an essential means to prevent material and social deprivation, especially in vulnerable phases of the life course such as youth and old age. Transfers are, however, at the same time a result of the social and material position of individuals and families within different social policy contexts as many studies have shown (e.g. Attias-Donfut, Ogg, & Wolff, 2005; Bonsang, 2007; Brandt & Deindl, 2013; Daatland & Herlofson, 2003). In the following sections we set out to assess the multi-directional links between intergenerational exchange between three generations and deprivation throughout life course and across different societies and regional contexts. Our analysis thus explores some of the potential mechanisms behind the links between social inequality and intergenerational solidarity. This knowledge is an important basis for evidence-based policies which shall preserve intergenerational cohesion and family solidarity in times of population ageing and discussions about the future feasibility of pay-as-you-go-pensions, health insurance schemes and so on – for the old as well as for the young.