“Grandparenting is stronger than me”: Being a grandparent during collective traumatic circumstances

ABSTRACT Objective This study aims to examine the experiences and meanings attached to grandparenting among Israeli Jewish grandparents in the aftermath of the October 7 terror attack on Israel and the ensuing war. Background Traumatic events can disrupt intergenerational relationships, yet grandparents often play a crucial role in providing emotional and practical support. Despite this, relatively little is known about grandparents' adaptation to their roles during a collective trauma. Method Semistructured interviews with 21 Israeli Jewish grandparents (aged 40–73) to grandchildren up to 10 years old, were conducted 2 to 4 weeks after the terror attack. Thematic analysis was performed. Results Four themes emerged, reflecting grandparents' perceptions of their roles: cognitive commitment and its costs; emotional engagement; symbolic dimensions of repair and continuity; and active behavioral involvement. These dimensions were found to fit the cognitive, emotional, symbolic, and behavioral dimensions of the multidimensional experience of grandparenthood model. Grandparenthood dimensions seem to expand during the war, as grandparents took on enhanced roles to ensure stability, safety, and resilience for their grandchildren. Conclusion Grandparents' roles extended beyond traditional boundaries, emphasizing their centrality in family resilience during collective trauma. Implications The findings highlight grandparents' adaptability and resilience during collective traumatic events. Integrating grandparents into family and community support systems can enhance familial resilience in times of crisis.