Frequency of Contact and Explanations for Increased Contact between Grandchildren and Their Grandparents during the COVID-19 Pandemic

This study examined grandparent-grandchild contact during the COVID-19 pandemic using principles of Intergenerational Solidarity Theory as a framework. Young adults (N= 165) completed an online survey about contact with grandparents before and during the pandemic. Participants also provided ratings...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of Intergenerational relationships 2021-04, Vol.19 (2), p.163-178
Main Authors: McDarby, Meghan, Ju, Catherine H., Carpenter, Brian D.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Coronaviruses
COVID-19
grandchildren
Grandparents
Intergenerational relationships
Intergenerational Solidarity Theory
Mental health
Pandemics
Social cohesion
Young adults
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Summary:This study examined grandparent-grandchild contact during the COVID-19 pandemic using principles of Intergenerational Solidarity Theory as a framework. Young adults (N= 165) completed an online survey about contact with grandparents before and during the pandemic. Participants also provided ratings of affectual solidarity toward grandparents and grandparents' physical and mental health. A subsample of participants (n= 31) explained reasons for increased telephone contact with grandparents. Median frequency of grandchild-initiated contact with grandparents increased marginally during the pandemic, and higher ratings of affectual solidarity toward grandparents were significantly associated with increases in frequency of contact. Ratings of grandparents' physical and mental health were not significantly associated with changes in frequency of contact from before the pandemic to during the pandemic. The most common explanation for increased contact with grandparents during the pandemic reported by study participants was concern about COVID-19. Findings support Intergenerational Solidarity Theory and underscore its interaction with historical moments, including the COVID-19 pandemic.
ISSN:1535-0770
1535-0932
DOI:10.1080/15350770.2020.1852995