|
Grandparenting and Marriage
by Dr. Gary Chapman
If you have children and you live long enough, you're likely to become a grandparent.
What does becoming a grandparent have to do with marriage? It creates another whole set of dynamics - things about which you and your spouse may agree or disagree. In short, it may create more conflict.
The very thought of becoming a grandparent sends some people into a tailspin. Some grandparents take the attitude, "I raised my kids, they can raise theirs." Others say, "Don't call me Grandma - I'm not that old."
Research indicates that many children do not have a close relationship with their grandparents.
On the other hand, those grandparents who take their grandchildren seriously, usually have a strong influence on the children.
If you don't yet have grandchildren, now's the time to talk about it. If the two of you get on the same page before the grandchildren are born, you're less likely to have conflicts after they arrive.
If you already have grandchildren and they're coming for a visit, share your concerns with each other before the grandchildren get there. Don't argue in front of them.
Article written by Dr. Gary Chapman. Based on the book, How to Really Love Your Adult Child by Dr. Gary Chapman and Dr. Ross Campbell. Published by Moody Publishing. For a complete listing of Dr. Chapman's books and resources, click here.
| 
