As the middle generation attempts to deal with the challenges of unemp
loyment, increasing divorce rates and substance abuse, it is becoming
increasingly common for the older generation to be called upon to rais
e grandchildren. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore
the complex problems grandparents have when raising their grandchildre
n. Grandparents reported their relationships with adult children, beco
ming surrogate parents and legal issues as major areas of stress.