Parents to Grandparents

 
Pregnancy changes not only the roles of the expectant parents, but also those of the expectant grandparents. The relationships between the expectant parents and their parents will also undergo great changes. Pregnancy will allow the mother and her partner to confront their parents as equals - on the common ground of parenthood. This will likely create a new appreciation for the job done by their parents in raising them. It will also lead to one analyzing their childhood, reviewing their development, and resolving unsettled problems with family members.

Pregnancy has the tendency to generate in the expectant mother a great need or desire to be nurtured by their parents. This can bring them much closer during pregnancy. Both the expectant mother and father assess their relationships with each of their parents. They will tend to forgive old grievances and become closer than they were prior to pregnancy.

It should be remembered that the mother's parents (as well as those of her partner) are accepting new roles and identities with pregnancy. The transition to grandparent can be difficult. They may be experiencing conflicting emotions. On one hand they are excited over the promise of a new generation starting, and on the other they may be struggling with the realization that their expectant children will never need them in quite the same way. The new role of grandparents is however just as important and exciting. Grandparents are a valuable parenting resource as they offer time, wisdom, advice, and love. They are a source of emotional support and are a model of parenting that can be referred to. They also offer experience and help when needed.

The changing relations between parents and children and the altered roles of these parents when they become grandparents can be difficult and unpleasant to deal with. However, the new relationships and roles are very rewarding and can provide a new sense of family.

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