City Research Online

Abstract

Purpose
Despite the growing importance of grandparents in the upbringing of children, limited research examines the interactions between grandparents and parents within the framework of intergenerational co-parenting. Focusing on the context of children’s food consumption, the authors use a conflict lens of socialization theory and a relational power perspective to investigate the dynamics and conflicts inherent in Chinese intergenerational co-parenting interactions.

Design/methodology/approach
The authors conducted 49 in-depth interviews with Chinese parents and grandparents engaged in co-parenting. Through thematic analysis, the authors identified crucial themes surrounding cultural nuances and conflict mitigation strategies related to intergenerational co-parenting interactions.

Findings
The findings unpack the cultural insights and dynamics that shape the underlying reasons for conflicts and the strategies used to mitigate them. Accordingly, the authors present a 2x2 typology matrix for socialization in intergenerational co-parenting, emphasizing how parents and grandparents navigate conflicts. From this, the authors identify four categories of socialization: conflict, conformity, compromise and congruence.

Research limitations/implications
The authors deliver comprehensive insights into intergenerational co-parenting interactions within a Chinese context, where this approach is recognized as a manifestation of filial piety. This establishes a strong foundation for further cross-cultural research opportunities.

Practical implications
This study provides marketers and policymakers with a nuanced understanding of the family dynamic interactions and conflicts that can arise during co-parenting, thus developing effective segmentation and market communication strategies.

Originality/value
While intergenerational co-parenting relationships can be conflictual, conflict is neither always negative nor an end state. Rather, conflict serves as a canvas to unfold different types of familial socialization. The authors highlight that acceptance of family counterparts and desire to change motivate the mitigation strategies used for maintaining familial ties.

Publication Type:	Article
Additional Information:	© 2025 Emerald Publishing Limited. This is the accepted manuscript of an article published by Elsevier. Please refer to the publisher’s terms and conditions for information on re-use.
Publisher Keywords:	Socialization, Intergenerational co-parenting, Children’s food consumption, Power influence, Conflict
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General)
Departments:	School of Communication & Creativity School of Communication & Creativity > Department of Media, Culture & Creative Industries
SWORD Depositor:	Symplectic Administrator

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