Caring for and Learning from Each Other

A Grounded Theory Study of Grandmothers and Adult Granddaughters

Bibliographic Data

ID6081135
AuthorsDesiree M Seponski (0000-0003-1056-6895, University of Georgia, corresponding author), Denise C Lewis (0000-0003-0878-7912, University of Georgia)
Year2009
Volume7
Issue4
Pages394-410
Publication date2009-11-30
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessNo
TypeARTICLE
VenueJournal of Intergenerational Relationships (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1535-0770 • E-ISSN: 1535-0932
PublisherInforma UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/15350770903289017
OpenAlexW2065063121
LanguageEN
Citations received7
References cited20

This study examines the transmission of values between grandmothers and adult granddaughters, including how these values are transmitted bidirectionally and then used to cocreate a mutually formed value set. Past research has been restricted to a unidirectional approach of transmission of values from older generation to younger generation. The majority of past studies support that youth look to elders for guidance on life, values, and moral development. Few studies have ventured to consider a bidirectional process, in which the elder also benefits from the relationship and a dynamic relationship emerges. Data gathering for this study began with a focus group (n = 6) to pilot the interview guide followed by semistructured interviews with four grandmother-granddaughter dyads. Data indicate that grandmothers and adult granddaughters experience a change in their relationship when the granddaughter reaches adulthood, that the relationship is mutually beneficial, that both generations learn from exchanges within the relationship, and that both grandmothers and granddaughters influence each other's personal identity. This study provides valuable insight and a first step toward an emerging theory that suggests relationships are reciprocal and bidirectional between grandmothers and adult granddaughters

Developmental psychology · Grandparent · Grounded theory · Qualitative research · Reciprocal · Sociology · Aging and Gerontology Research · Family Dynamics and Relationships · Intergenerational Family Dynamics and Caregiving · Psychology · Social Psychology

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