Group Leaders’ Perceptions of Interventions with Grandparent Caregivers: Content and Process

Authors

Bert Hayslip Jr., University of North TexasFollow
Julian Montoro-Rodriguez, University of North Carolina-CharlotteFollow
Gregory C. Smith, Kent State UniversityFollow
Frederick Strieder, University of MarylandFollow

Abstract

Nineteen (Mage = 45, SD = 12.8) professionally trained group leaders were surveyed regarding their experiences in leading a 10-week program with one of three RCT conditions (cognitive behavior training, parenting skills training, information only support). While a high percentage indicated that the intervention led by them was beneficial, leaders nevertheless felt that some participants benefited more so than others. Perceived program benefits were seen as being linked to regular attendance and the completion of weekly homework. The major benefits to participants were gaining personal insight, receiving and providing support to others, successfully applying learned skills and knowledge to everyday life, and feeling empowered and hopeful about the future. Peer leaders were viewed positively as was the provision of food and childcare. Group leaders faced numerous practical challenging in conducting group interventions: ensuring regular attendance, keeping participants focused and on track, and dealing with participants who dominated discussion. These unprecedented findings not only allow us insight into the dynamics of leading group interventions with grandmother caregivers, but they may also have implications as influences on the measured efficacy of such programs.

Recommended Citation

Hayslip, B., Montoro-Rodriguez, J., Smith, G. C., Strieder, F. (2015). Group Leaders’ Perceptions of Interventions with Grandparent Caregivers: Content and Process. GrandFamilies: The Contemporary Journal of Research, Practice and Policy, 2 (2).
Available at: https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/grandfamilies/vol2/iss2/3