When the Going Gets Tough, We go to Grandma’s
But What Does it Mean for Grandma (and/or Grandpa) When Their Grandchildren Come to Live with Them?
A Longitudinal Case Study Approach to Explore the Experiences of Grandparents Who are Raising Their Grandchildren.
This research will explore the changing nature of experiences of grandparents who are raising their grandchildren in Victoria, Australia. It will provide insights into what it means for grandparents whose circumstances are subject to a range of changes over time (eg; changes to the formality of arrangements; issues associated with having intermittent care of grandchildren; dealing with changing needs and stages of development of grandchildren etc.). In particular, the areas to be studied will be self-identity and autonomy for these grandparents, including their feelings about their perceived and actual levels of responsibility and authority for the grandchildren in their care. Participants will be encouraged to identify their perceived needs for personal, emotional and social support and provide suggestions for service responses at key stages of their care-giving journey. This will help inform our practice in building on the strengths of the increasing number of grandparents who are raising their grandchildren.