426 - Character Strengths association with Personal Growth in Grandparents providing Regular Care

Introduction The number of grandparents providing regular care for their grandchildren has increased substantially. Data drawn from the SHARE survey shows caregivers more than 30 hours per week in Europe. This means that many are performing tasks part parents’ responsibilities. Some research shown lower perceived health and role strain. However, it can also offer opportunities to grow. Rapid social changes have led not perceiving predecessors as models, making them having update themselves relate with grandchildren. Character strengths natural ability by which thoughts, feelings behaviours allow achieve goals. They could help increase perceptions personal growth. played character growth been studied yet. Method study aimed analyze what predict extended babysitters´ included 107 (more 15 week) at least one grandchild Spain. average age was 69.46 (SD=7.02), 63.6% were women, 76% maternal daily provided 5.07 (DT=14.61). To data, we conducted stepwise multiple regressions. Results: In step one, total score explained 21.1% variance (F(1, 105)= 28.14; p≤.001). emotional intelligence accounted 25.6% two 104)= 17.91; final step, strengths, creativity 28.6% 103)= 13.79; p≤.05). higher scores creativity, showed. Conclusion: These results reflect importance considering factors associated grandparents´ Future interventions focused on babysitters consider strengths. Especially, intelligence, may connect dialogue own emotions those well experience difficulties caregiving development. Funding: Project funded Fundación San Pablo CEU (M02.0401.000.MPFI20CN)