WCP 2025

This study is part of the International Investigation on Parental Burnout led by Roskam and Mikolajczak. While quantitative research on parental burnout is growing, there is a lack of qualitative studies addressing its intergenerational dimensions, especially how emotion regulation, stress, and attachment patterns are transmitted between generations.
Clinical observations suggest an increase in maternal burnout despite improved parental support policies. Young mothers today, although better supported through extended maternity leave and parenting groups, report high levels of emotional exhaustion. This study explores whether relational patterns between young mothers and their own mothers may contribute to this.
Using a semi-structured interview for grandmothers, aligned with the protocol developed by Roskam et al. (2023) for mothers, we conducted a qualitative case study of nine grandmother–mother dyads. Each mother also completed the Parental Burnout Assessment.
Findings suggest that grandmothers’ histories of childhood loss, violence, emotional detachment, or mental health issues—as well as difficulties in their own mothering—may be significant relational risk factors for maternal burnout in their daughters.
These insights highlight the need for therapeutic interventions that address intergenerational dynamics, not just individual symptoms. Support for grandmothers could enhance their emotional availability, benefiting both their daughters and grandchildren. Further research with more dyads and inclusion of fathers is needed to deepen understanding of the familial transmission of burnout risk.