Abstract:
Changes within the family unit have resulted in changes in interactions
between grandparents and older grandchildren. Existing research indicates that
these relationships can result in positive outcomes. A relevant task for
researchers is to continue to explore th~se intergenerational relationships.
This qualitative phenomenological study explores the question: What
functional patterns exist when grandparents interact with older grandchildren?
Six grandparent-older grandchild pairs agreed to be involved.
Kennedy's (1992) formulation of grandparent-older grandchild activity
clusters was reviewed and revised. Activities were clustered related to
socialization, companionship, support, entertainment, and education.
Findings unique to this study indicate that shared activities were mutually
chosen with consideration of activity tolerance, and were consistently evaluated
as enjoyable. Partners were chosen because of a comfortable relationship
established through frequent past and present interactions, and not because of
family lineage preferences. Both grandparents and older grandchildren stated a
desire to have a generation peer share activities with them.
Exploration of dimension concepts for the "McMaster Model of Family
Functioning" indicated that these relationships have potential to contribute to
healthy family functioning.
The implications for practice, theory development and further research
are suggested.
