Dyadic and gender differences in perceptions of the grandparent-grandchild relationship

The majority of research on grandparenting has taken the perspective of either the grandparent or the grandchild. The present study compares the perceptions of grandparents and grandchildren on four relationship variables: 1) role conception, 2) amount of contact, 3) the assessed adequacy of contact, and 4) closeness of relationship. The sample consisted of forty grandparent-grandchild pairs representing four relational dyads. A series of ANOVAs were used to examine gender and relational differences in perceptions. Increased understanding of the dynamics of grandparent-grandchild relationships can benefit professionals who develop intergenerational programs. Creating opportunities to interact across a spectrum of activities is recommended.