Which sociologist found little evidence supporting the idea that family members would take care of elderly relatives?

Finch is recognized for her research highlighting the complexities and challenges surrounding family caregiving, particularly in relation to elderly relatives. She argues that there is often an expectation for family members to take care of older individuals, but the practical evidence supporting this expectation is limited.

In her work, Finch examined how relationships within families can be influenced by various factors, including social norms, financial constraints, and the changing structure of families over time. She found that while many people may feel a sense of obligation to care for their elderly relatives, actual caregiving can be affected by personal circumstances, such as distance, availability, and support systems outside of the family.

Her findings challenge the traditional notion that families are the primary support system for the elderly, suggesting instead that responsibilities might be distributed differently due to modern societal changes. This perspective provides insight into the dynamics of family roles and the realities of elder care in contemporary society.