The Relationship of Grandparents and LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender) Grandchildren, as Perceived by the Grandparents

Ahuva Even-Zohar (), Tal Abargel, Ofel Mualem and Almog Shaibi
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Ahuva Even-Zohar: Faculty of Social Science, School of Social Work, Ariel University, Ariel 40700, Israel
Tal Abargel: Faculty of Social Science, School of Social Work, Ariel University, Ariel 40700, Israel
Ofel Mualem: Faculty of Social Science, School of Social Work, Ariel University, Ariel 40700, Israel
Almog Shaibi: Faculty of Social Science, School of Social Work, Ariel University, Ariel 40700, Israel

Social Sciences, 2025, vol. 14, issue 8, 1-23

Abstract: There has been a growing trend of young people coming out as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (LGBTQ) in recent years. Research on the relationship between LGBTQ grandchildren and their grandparents is limited and primarily focuses on the grandchildren’s perspective. This pilot study seeks to understand the relationship between grandparents and their LGBT grandchildren, from the grandparents’ perspective. Six Israeli grandparents were interviewed using a qualitative methodology, guided by a semi-structured interview protocol. Analysis of the interviews revealed three main themes: grandparents’ exposure to the grandchildren’s sexual orientation and their gender identity; the shattering of the grandparents’ dream and concern for the grandchild; and the relations between the grandparents and their LGBT grandchildren. The research findings in this pilot study indicate that the relations remained close and did not change following disclosure of the sexual orientation. However, some grandparents needed time to resume their regular relationship. The insights learned from the research findings regarding the process undergone by the grandparents upon discovering their grandchildren’s sexual orientation can help professionals treat and counsel family members, when necessary, how to bridge the gaps, and rebuild the relations between the grandparent and the grandchild, as these relations are important for the well-being of both.

Keywords: grandparents; LGBT grandchildren; relationship (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: A B N P Y80 Z00 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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