Grandfathers raising grandchildren:an exploration of african american kinship networks.

Abstract

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to more fully understand the factors that motivate and influence kinship care provided by African American grandfathers who raise their grandchildren.
Methods. Data were gathered from a community sample of older men, age 65+, who were responsible for the care of at least one grandchild in a rural community in southeastern North Carolina. Fifty-four percent of the grandfathers were African American men who are the focus of the present analysis. Responses were analyzed using a qualitative content analysis mode and descriptive statistics.
Results. Five factors (obligation, lack of availability of other caregivers, family tradition, role modeling, care and concern) that influence their decision to assume the parenting role emerged and three areas (lack of resources, feelings of powerlessness, religious beliefs and spirituality) that impact their ability to continue providing care were identified.
Discussion. Findings indicate that practitioners seeking to understand kinship care and assist grandparents who are raising grandchildren must take into account the hardships these families face due to a lack of concrete services and the implications for mental health. Results affirm the need for special attention to grandfathers who provide kinship care. doi:10.1300/J045v22n03_12.