Grandparenting and Family Relationship Satisfaction in Middle-Aged and Older Couples: Focusing on the Interdependence of the Marital System

Abstract

Grandparenting is a multifaceted activity that not only links multigenerational family relationships but also directly affects the system of middle-aged and older couples. However, there is a lack of studies on the interdependence of marital relationships among grandparents who serve as caregivers of grandchildren. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the interdependence of the effects of grandparenting on family relationship satisfaction among middle-aged and older couples. Using 1-2 Korean Retirement and Income study, this study analyzed actor-partner interdependence model within a sample of 1,309 grandparents (563 middle-aged couples, 746 older adult couples). In the case of middle-aged grandparents, the grandfather’s actor effect was found in the relationship between grandparenting and family relationship satisfaction. On the other hand, in the case of older grandparents, the grandmother’s partner effect was found in the relationship between grandparenting and family relationship satisfaction. This study highlights the complex dynamics of grandparenting in marital systems, considering both gender and life stage differences. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the impact of grandparenting on marital relationships.