Predictors of Grandparent–Grandchild Closeness: An Ecological Perspective

Improved health and extended life expectancy have provided opportunities for more adult grandchildren to interact with their grandparents. Applying an ecological perspective, the current study examined demographic, personal, and environmental factors associated with close grandparent–grandchild relationships. Participants were 470 young adults aged 18–27 (M = 20.16). Adult grandchildren's perceptions of their relationships with their favorite/close grandparents were examined retrospectively in three stages (childhood, adolescence, and young adulthood). Predictors of grandparent–grandchild closeness include grandparent–grandchild contact frequency, grandparents' education levels and general health, and personality traits. Path analysis revealed intertwined directional effects of these predictors of grandparent–grandchild closeness.