Grandparenting

Grandparenting: Contemporary Perspectives is one of the first books of its kind to offer a dedicated account of the social and psychological research on this important life stage. Reflecting the contemporary positive approach to ageing, it covers many of the issues that impact the grandparent experience today, such as care-giving and changing family structures, to reveal the health and wellbeing benefits of the grandparent role. It examines biological, psychological, social/ familial, gender, cultural and economic dimensions to map out the current landscape in this emerging field. Moore and Rosenthal draw on quantitative and qualitative, experimental, survey, observation and case study research, including unique data on grandfathers. They examine how people respond to the challenges and possibilities of grandparenting, and how this influences intergenerational relationships and adapting to growing older. The book provides a comprehensive, up-to-date evidence base for students in health, sociology and psychology and those interested in gerontology and the lifespan.

Susan Moore is Emeritus Professor, Department of Psychological Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Australia. Doreen Rosenthal is Emeritus Professor, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Australia.

Acknowledgements; 1. Grandparenting: the third act? 2. Becoming a Grandparent: Transitions and Bonding 3. Psychological Benefits of grandparenting 4. Roles and relationships 5. Grandparents and Primary carers 6. Diverse Family structures 7 Health and wellbeing 8. The experience of grandfathers 9. Laws, policies and programs 10. Grandparenting: an agenda for the future; references