The Study of Child Rearing Behaviors of Young Children in Skipped-Generation Families in Maha Sarakham Province

Abstract

This study focused on child rearing behaviors of young children in skipped-generation families in Maha Sarakham province in the areas of physical, emotional, social, and cognitive. By using purposive sampling technique, there were 5 skipped-generation families selected that the parents have migrated to work in big cities. The data was collected through means of interview and observation. The data was analyzed by using content analysis method.

The study showed that most grandparents raised grandchildren with authoritative parenting style and some of them raised grandchildren with authoritarian parenting style. Grandparents met grandchildren’s physical needs by providing them with good food which contained enough nutrients, cared for their health, and visited the doctor as needed. Most grandchildren were joyful when their basic needs were met and when grandparents were emotionally healthy. Grandparents promoted their grandchildren’s social skills through introducing them to people and things around them, letting them participate in social activities and religious events. Grandchildren were taught to behave and have good morals. Grandchildren developed cognitively through their daily routine, through play, and through joining kindergarten. Grandparents used their experiences from raising their own children to support grandchildren. Childrearing aimed to develop grandchildren holistically according to their growth, developmental stages, readiness, and family’s ability to provide what the children need.