Affectionate Communication Is Associated With Emotional and Relational Resources in the Grandparent-Grandchild Relationship. Issue 2 (3rd April 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mansson, Daniel Hans; Floyd, Kory; Soliz, Jordan
• Is Part Of: Journal of intergenerational relationships. Volume 15:Issue 2(2017)
• Page Start: 85
• Page End: 103
• Publication Date: 2017-04-03
• Subjects: Affection exchange theory -- emotional closeness -- grandchildren -- grandparents -- shared family identity -- social support; Intergenerational relations -- Periodicals; 306.87405
• DOI: 10.1080/15350770.2017.1294007
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1535-0770

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Grounded in affection exchange theory (AET; Floyd, 2006), this study examined the extent to which affection received from grandparents is associated with grandchildren's perceptions of their grandparents and their grandparent-grandchild relationship (in the form of emotional closeness, shared family identity, and perceived availability of social support). Young adult grandchildren ( N = 171) completed several instruments in reference to their relationship with a specific grandparent. The results of multiple regression analyses generally supported the hypotheses that received affection is associated positively with grandchildren's perceptions of their grandparents and their grandparent-grandchild relationship. These findings support AET's utility in the grandparent-grandchild relationship and the notion that grandparents often influence their grandchildren's perceptions of their family.