This study looked at how the affection young adults receive from their grandmothers can influence their health habits. The researchers were curious if feeling loved and supported by a grandmother could lead to better eating, more exercise, better sleep, and less use of alcohol or drugs.
To find out, they asked 229 college students to complete a survey. The students answered questions about how muchaffection they received from their grandmothers growing up. This included things like feeling loved and appreciated, being listened to, sharing funny memories, or having their birthdays remembered. They also reported how often they eat healthy, exercise, sleep well, or use substances like alcohol or cigarettes.
The results showed that students who remembered their grandmothers sharing fun stories or celebrating special occasions with them tended to eat healthier. Those who felt loved, laughed together with their grandmothers, or celebrated with them were also more likely to be physically active.
However, when it came to things like drinking or using drugs, the study didn’t find a strong connection with grandmotherly affection. So even if someone felt close to their grandmother, it didn’t seem to directly impact their substance use. On the other hand, students who felt genuinely loved and valued by their grandmothers tended to sleep better.
The takeaway is that affection from a grandmother can have a real impact on some important parts of health, especially diet, exercise, and sleep. It seems that feeling supported and emotionally connected in your family can shape the way you take care of yourself, even as a young adult.
The study reminds us how important strong family relationships can be not just for emotional comfort, but for your physical health too. It also shows that even small things like stories, kindness, or remembering a birthday can make a big difference over time.
While the research didn’t show a link between affection and avoiding harmful substances, that doesn’t mean affection isn’t important. Health is complicated, and other influences like friends, stress, or personal experiences also play a role.
Overall, this study encourages us to value the love and support we get from our families, especially our grandmothers, and to recognize how those connections can help us live healthier lives.
