ABSTRACT
While some authors romanticize these second-time parents and point to a long tradition of grandparents helping to raise children, most third-generation caregivers agree there is very little that is "grand" about becoming parents yet again. Second-time parents usually find themselves on an emotional roller coaster. Just when one thought that their life had settled down, their dreams are dashed; their work and social life are disrupted, their retirement nest egg eroded. It is not surprising anxiety, depression, and loneliness are common complaints of many custodial grandparents. Though many grandparents express tremendous relief that they no longer have to worry about the daily safety and welfare of their grandchildren, they continue to be troubled by the plight of their adult children. There are also some special issues in raising grandchildren. There are few situations that cause more anguish to grandparents than when they suspect that a parent is physically, sexually, or mentally abusing a child.
