The Journey From Grandparent to Parent

Perceptions of Adoptive Grandparents Post-Adoption

Bibliographic Data

ID2926964
AuthorsJill K Bryant (0009-0003-9923-8413, Walden University), Jill Bryant (Walden University, corresponding author)
Year2025
Volume47
Issue2
Pages148-167
Publication date2025-08-14
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueJournal of Family Issues (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0192-513X • E-ISSN: 1552-5481
PublisherSAGE Publications Inc (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1177/0192513x251370669
OpenAlexW4413302114
LanguageEN
Citations received1
References cited28

Past literature on grandparents raising grandchildren has focused primarily on grandparents serving as guardians, with little knowledge about those families where grandparents make the permanent decision to adopt and raise their grandchildren. Making a permanent decision to raise a second family later in life affects nearly every facet of life and yet little is known about this phenomenon and the changes grandparents must navigate. This qualitative research study examined the lived experiences including challenges and developmental shifts for 10 grandparents who adopted their grandchildren. The phenomenological study used the Family Adaptation and Adjustment Response (FAAR) Model to identify stressors, strains, resources, coping, and meaning-making of the experience. Results demonstrate similarities but also differences with past studies of grandparents raising grandchildren, indicating some unique experiences and challenges. Implications inform those areas where additional resources and support are needed, and policy changes are warranted

Developmental psychology · Grandparent · Perception · Child Welfare and Adoption · Family Dynamics and Relationships · Intergenerational Family Dynamics and Caregiving · Psychology · Social Psychology

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