Research demonstrating the buffering effects of social support on stress suggests the value of grandparents as a source of social support for parents of children with disabilities. However, while they are an important member of parents' social network, grandparents are sometimes a source of stress. This article includes a review of the literature on grandparents as both a source of support, and a source of stress. Suggestions are provided to help professionals mobilize the assistance of grandparents as a source of support.
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