Identifying the Strategies Used by Grandparents in Child-Rearing Across Different Cultural Contexts

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to explore the strategies used by grandparents in child-rearing across different cultural contexts.

Methods and Materials: This qualitative study utilized semi-structured interviews with 37 grandparents recruited through online platforms. The study employed a purposive sampling method to ensure diversity in cultural backgrounds. The interviews were conducted online, recorded, and transcribed verbatim. Data analysis was performed using thematic analysis with the assistance of NVivo software, following an inductive coding process to identify emerging themes. Theoretical saturation was achieved when no new themes emerged.

Findings: The results indicated that grandparents play a crucial role in their grandchildren’s upbringing through four main strategies: emotional and psychological support, transmission of cultural values, disciplinary strategies, and intergenerational learning and adaptation. Grandparents provided emotional security by offering reassurance and fostering resilience, contributing to their grandchildren’s psychological well-being. They actively engaged in cultural transmission through storytelling, language preservation, and reinforcing moral values, ensuring continuity of traditions. Disciplinary strategies varied, with some grandparents employing non-punitive methods such as positive reinforcement and mediation, while others adhered to stricter rule-setting. Grandparents also demonstrated adaptability by incorporating modern parenting techniques and learning from their grandchildren, particularly in digital literacy and evolving social norms.

Conclusion: The study highlights the evolving role of grandparents in child-rearing, demonstrating a balance between traditional caregiving practices and contemporary parenting adaptations. Their involvement remains essential in fostering emotional security, cultural continuity, and behavioral development in children. Given the generational shifts in parenting ideologies, intergenerational dialogue and mutual learning are crucial for enhancing the effectiveness of grandparental caregiving. Future research should further examine the long-term impact of grandparental caregiving on child development.