From Grandparent to Caregiver: The Stress and Satisfaction of Raising Grandchildren

TLDR

The circumstances faced by grandparents who become caregivers for their grandchildren are complicated and stressful. This study identified the need for additional research about interventions for the stress and coping responses of grandparent caregivers. The study conducted in-depth interviews with 54 grandparent caregivers and analyzed the qualitative data using QSR NUD*IST software. The analysis revealed that grandparent caregivers face financial, family, and legal challenges, develop diverse coping strategies—including action, emotional expression, faith, focus on the child, and outreach—and report satisfaction linked to the joys of child‑rearing, participation in activities, a renewed life focus, and witnessing their grandchildren’s achievements.

Abstract

The circumstances faced by grandparents who become caregivers for their grandchildren are complicated and stressful. Indepth interviews were conducted with 54 grandparent caregivers (37 grandmothers and 17 grandfathers). Analysis of qualitative data involved the use of QSR NUD * IST software for organizing and coding interview transcripts. Subsets of financial, family, and legal problems specific to grandparent caregiving were identified. Grandparent caregivers acquire problem-specific coping strategies, which include taking action, talking about feelings, religious faith, focus on the grandchild, outreach to others, and some “less desirable” means. Caregiver satisfaction was related to the joys of children, the tasks of child rearing, participating in grandchildren's activities, a new focus for life, and watching a child's accomplishments. This study identified the need for additional research about interventions for the stress and coping responses of grandparent caregivers.