Activities That Strengthen Relational Bonds Between Latter-day Saint Grandfathers and Their Adult Grandchildren

Abstract

Using a qualitative approach, in-depth interviews were conducted with eight Latter-day Saint (LDS) grandfathers and their adult grandsons and adult granddaughters regarding actions they implemented to build and maintain their relational bonds. Both grandfathers’ grandchildren were found to be highly involved in intergenerational relationship-building activities, although gender differences were found among grandsons and granddaughters. Four overall themes emerged as specific activities that promoted closeness within intergenerational relationships. The first three themes included (1) engaging in frequent contact; (2) serving one another; and (3) being a part of a conversational family. The fourth theme specifically involved the infusion of LDS religious principles incorporated into relational-building activities. Implications and future research directions are also discussed.

Keywords:

• cultural narratives
• church
• religion