(PS8-B31) Understanding the Unique Needs of Custodial Grandfamilies

Introduction:  

The number of grandfamilies in which children are raised by their grandparents has been increasing globally (Xu et al., 2022). Grandfamilies often formed due to adverse circumstances such as parental substance misuse, abuse, parental incarceration, or death of a parent (Smith et al., 2021). These grandchildren have high rates of trauma exposure and behavioral problems (Danielsbacka et al., 2022). Additionally, grandfamilies report poorer overall well-being than traditional families (Xu et al., 2022). This situation disproportionately impacts racially minoritized families and they experience many inequities, including high rates of poverty (Generations United, 2022). Understanding the unique needs of grandfamilies is crucial for mitigating the impact of risk factors, and developing tailored treatments to improve their overall well-being. We examined risk and protective factors in grandfamilies. Knowledge of how grandfamilies function can lead to tailored treatments to improve their overall well-being.

Methods:  

A total of 79 custodial grandparents (CGs) of children ages 6-12 completed a survey on REDCap. Risk factors were assessed via a demographic questionnaire, caregiving interference ratings, overall distress (DASS-21), parenting stress (PSS), and child behavioral problems (CBCL). Protective factors were measured utilizing a resilience scale (CD-RISC) and parenting measure (APQ). 

Results &

Discussion:  
38% of families had low-income with 21% of the total sample living in poverty. Parental substance misuse was the most common reason for CGs taking over caregiving (54%). Over half of grandchildren (58%) experienced prenatal substance exposure. Many (42%) had been diagnosed with at least one mental or physical health condition, with 41% having clinically elevated levels of externalizing symptoms. 43% of CGs had clinically significant stress (DASS Stress score) and 55% had elevated levels of parenting stress (PSS score). Many reported the role has led to disruptions in relationships with their partners (51%), retirement/employment (62%), friendships (64%), mental health (59%), and physical health (47%). However, responses also indicated many CGs are resilient (CD-RISC score) and utilize positive parenting practices (APQ scores). Providers can capitalize on these strengths to improve caregiver well-being. Grandfamilies also experience risk factors (e.g., poverty, prenatal substance exposure) that may be barriers to obtaining support and engaging in treatment. Grandfamilies would likely benefit from treatment that addresses both individual and systemic risks. A team-based approach to treatment, informed by grandfamilies risks and strengths, can help improve the well-being of grandfamilies.