The quality of grandparent-grandchild relationship and the role of the family

The aim of the present study was to explore grandparent involvement in the life of their preschool grandchildren. More specifically, the study examined the types and extent of grandparent involvement, the quality of the grandparent-grandchild relationship and how factors related to the grandparent (e.g. age, distance, health) associate with the quality of the grandparent-grandchild relationship. Taking an ecological perspective the study examined the role of the parent-grandparent relationship in affecting the grandparent-grandchild relationship. Eighty-two grandparents (49 grandmothers) - the majority of whom had retired - participated in the study. Grandparents filled a structured questionnaire examining demographic characteristics, aspects of their involvement and the quality of their relationship both with the grandchild and the parents. Results suggest that grandparents are more involved in the care of their grandchild than in school life. Factors such as distance and frequency of contact associated with the quality of their relationship. Closer grandparent-parent relationship and frequency of contact related to closer relationship between the child and the grandparent. The findings call for a thorough insight into grandparents' role in the upbringing of the next generation.