Abstract
In this study, we investigated the involvement with, and thoughts on, grandchildren and their guardians by grandparents who have concerns over their grandchildren’s development. Through the research results that we obtained, we summarized the family backgrounds, the involvement of grandparents with grandchildren and their guardians, their thoughts, and methods of obtaining information on grandchildren’s disabilities in each case. Based on the above results, we observed grandparents gaining knowledge of their grandchildren’s disabilities from professionals who have knowledge about developmental disabilities; the grandparents treated their grandchildren with affection, tried to grasp the reality of the situation objectively, and hoped to reduce the psychological burden of the guardians while maintaining a good relationship with them (given that they bear responsibility of the practical care of their grandchildren’s daily lives). In addition, grandparents encouraged their grandchildren and their guardians to get involved in related organizations, such as those concerned with rehabilitation or education, encouraged guardians to increase the number of places where guardians can consult, promoted social support, and hoped that families and guardians will have many consultation networks.
