Brown Bag Lunch Research Seminar: Entanglements of Leisure, Technology, and the Norms of Intensive Grandparenting and Active Aging

Drawing on focus group conversations with grandmothers in seven countries, this presentation will focus on normative assumptions of what it means to be a ‘good grandparent’. Discussion will consider ways in which social justice can provide a lens to critically interrogate the entanglement of ageism and family leisure. Analysis focuses on the intersections of intensive mothering and norms around active aging, deconstructing intergenerational tensions that emerge around intensive grandparenting.

About the speaker

Shannon Hebblethwaite's research centres around the complexities and nuances of the experience of leisure for marginalized peoples, including older people, first time mothers, and persons living with disabilities. More specifically, her research explores the social and political systems and institutions that shape, facilitate, and hinder inclusion and social engagement, specifically in the contexts of family relationships, digital technologies, social policy, and interage (intergenerational) relations.

Taking a critical and community-engaged approach, her work disrupts traditional narratives and discourses, challenges ageist assumptions, and encourages a more intersectional approach to understanding the impact that leisure has on wellbeing.

About the series

The Brown Bag Lunch Research Series 2025-2026 is offered by the Department of Applied Human Sciences. These sessions are opportunities for faculty researchers to discuss an issue, topic or area on which they are working. At each session, there will be plenty of time for questions and discussion. All are welcome! Bring your own lunch. Refreshments will be provided.

Sponsored by: Centre for Human Flourishing.