Relational Maintenance Behaviors in the Grandchild–Grandparent Relationship

Authors

Daniel H. Mansson, West Virginia University at Parkersburg
Scott A. Myers, West Virginia University
Lynn H. Turner, Marquette UniversityFollow

Document Type

Article

Language

eng

Format of Original

12 p.

Publication Date

1-2010

Publisher

Taylor & Francis

Source Publication

Communication Research Reports

Source ISSN

0882-4096

Original Item ID

doi: 10.1080/08824090903526521

Abstract

This study examined grandchildren's use of relational maintenance behaviors when interacting with their grandparents and how these behaviors are associated with grandchildren's perceived communication satisfaction with their grandparents and grandparent provision of communication-based emotional support. Undergraduate students (N = 238) reported on their relationships with the grandparent with whom they had the most recent interaction. Results indicate that grandchildren use (in descending order) the positivity, conflict management, tasks, assurances, networks, advice, and openness relational maintenance behaviors. Perceived grandparent provision of communication-based emotional support and grandchildren communication satisfaction with grandparents were directly and positively related to grandchildren's use of relational maintenance behaviors.

Comments

Accepted version. Communication Research Reports, Vol. 27, No. 1 (January-March 2010): 68-79. DOI. © 2010 Taylor & Francis (Routledge). Used with permission.

Recommended Citation

Mansson, Daniel H.; Myers, Scott A.; and Turner, Lynn H., "Relational Maintenance Behaviors in the Grandchild–Grandparent Relationship" (2010). College of Communication Faculty Research and Publications. 64.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/comm_fac/64