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SAGE Journal User Guide

Article 1:

Riley, L. D. (2005). The sandwich generation: Challenges and coping strategies of multigenerational families. The Family Journal, 13(1), 52-58.

Abstract:

This article presents a review of recent literature of the “sandwich generation” with an emphasis on women. Counseling interventions, family counseling implications, and two case studies follow the literature review.

Questions to Consider:

1. Describe your understanding of the “sandwich generation” concept and how it may differ greatly based on cultural contexts.
2. Discuss the importance of equitable caregiving when counseling a couple in the sandwich generation.
3. What mental health issues are a concern for sandwich generation caregivers? How can we attempt to prevent and/or ameliorate these issues?

Article 2:

Frisvold, M. H., Lindquist, R., & McAlpine, C. P. (2012). Living Life in the Balance at Midlife Lessons Learned From Mindfulness. Western journal of nursing research, 34(2), 265-278.

Abstract:

The purpose of this qualitative study was to describe the perceived effects of a Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Program on stress and quality of life of women in midlife. A total of 20 nurses, aged 45 to 55 years, who participated in a stress reduction course were contacted for interviews. A total of 9 nurses agreed to be interviewed. Content analysis was used to analyze these interviews. The five themes that emerged from the analysis were as follows: strengthening of interpersonal communication through social support, increased personal awareness through becoming more mindful and reflective, a spiritual awakening, effective ways of dealing with stress, and living life in balance by taking hold of one’s life. This study increased the authors’ understanding of effects/benefits, adherence, and application of MBSR techniques for women in midlife. It is concluded that MBSR may be a useful intervention for nurses in midlife to develop successful strategies for dealing with stress and to improve their quality of life.

Questions to Consider:

1. Describe which benefits and potential downfalls of MBSR would most likely lead you to implement or not implement any of the interventions mentioned.
2. Of the five themes listed, which are you most likely to capitalize on in session with a mid-life female client?
3. How may you assist a client to adhere to MBSR practices beyond the counseling environment?

Article 3:

Lachman, M. E., Teshale, S., & Agrigoroaei, S. (2015). Midlife as a pivotal period in the life course Balancing growth and decline at the crossroads of youth and old age. International journal of behavioral development, 39(1), 20-31.

Abstract:

We provide evidence for multi-directionality, variability, and plasticity in the nature and direction of change in physical health, cognitive functioning, and well-being during the middle years of the life course. The picture of well-being in midlife based on longitudinal data from the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) study is a more positive one than portrayed in previous cross-sectional studies. We present middle age as a pivotal period in the life course in terms of balancing growth and decline, linking earlier and later periods of life, and bridging younger and older generations. We highlight the role of protective factors and multisystem resilience in mitigating declines. Those in middle age play a central role in the lives of those who are younger and older at home, in the workplace, and in society at large. Thus, a focus on promoting health and well-being in middle age can have a far-reaching impact.

Questions to Consider:

1. In what ways to physical, mental, and emotional health interact during middle-age?
2. How may taking a strengths-based approach to conceptualizing clients in middle age be appropriate and/or beneficial?
3. Discuss the importance of resilience in this pivotal period of growth and decline.