What is likely a risk factor when a child's caregiver is a grandparent taking on new responsibilities?

When considering the dynamics involved when a grandparent becomes a caregiver, it is important to recognize the unique challenges and pressures they may face. Grandparents often step into caregiving roles due to a variety of circumstances, such as the incapacity or unavailability of the child’s biological parents. This shift can lead to various parental and familial strain, as the grandparent may have to adapt to new responsibilities that involve not only caring for a child but also navigating family dynamics that may be complex or fraught with tension.

These circumstances can include changes in the living situation, financial strains, or challenges in the caregiver's own health and well-being, which may be linked to their age or life stage. These aspects categorize the situation as a parental or family risk factor since they directly influence how the caregiver interacts with and supports the child's needs. Understanding the potential stressors that grandparents might face helps in identifying the support they may require in order to provide a safe and nurturing environment for the child.