Becoming a Grandparent—On Transitions and Transformations

Abstract

The transition to grandparenthood brings with it a shift in status, roles, and identities, and is perceived by grandparents themselves as one of the most meaningful and emotional events in their lives. Nevertheless, it has only recently become the subject of comprehensive research. This chapter offers a wide view of grandparenthood from the perspective of the life cycle and other transitions, sur- veying various factors that shape the experience of the role, including age, gender, lineage, and frequency of meetings with the grandchild. The chapter also focuses on grandparents’ psychological well-being and the process of personal growth, a positive psychological change that includes changes in self-perception, interper- sonal relationships, and priorities, and may be triggered by becoming a grandparent.