Resourcefulness Training for Grandmothers Raising Grandchildren

Abstract

Over one million American grandmothers raise grandchildren, and many experience stress that adversely affects their mental health. Teaching resourcefulness skills can minimize this stress. However, before testing effectiveness of resourcefulness training (RT), its fidelity must be established. This pilot intervention trial examined the fidelity of two methods of RT: expressive writing (journaling) and verbal disclosure (voice recording) using a quasi-experimental design with random assignment of 80 grandmothers to RT—expressive writing, RT—verbal disclosure, or expressive writing or verbal disclosure alone. Quantitative data (Resourcefulness Scale) and qualitative data (journals, recordings) were collected. Grandmothers with RT showed greater resourcefulness over time than those without RT, with similar effects for RT—expressive writing and RT—verbal disclosure. Evidence for the use of RT skills was found in journals and recordings. The findings provide support for RT intervention fidelity and support moving forward to test RT effectiveness in reducing grandmothers’ stress and promoting their mental health.