Grandparents' Beliefs Regarding their Role and Relationship with Special Needs Grandchildren

Grandparents often assume roles and functions that promote the health and development of their grandchildren. Yet, little is known about the impact and function of grandparents' involvement in cases where grandchildren have disabilities. Thirty two grandparents were interviewed to assess current involvement and perceptions of specific roles and functions as grandparents of children with disabilities. The majority of grandparents were interested and committed to providing support mechanisms/functions. New directions for research are proposed.