The bad grandpa who still treats his grandkids like teens from the 90s

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 13:05:56 +0000

**The bad grandpa who still treats his grandkids like teens from the 90s** — a curious cultural trend gaining traction in U.S. households—has become more than just a quirky family story. With shifting family dynamics, evolving parenting styles, and growing conversations around intergenerational connection, this phenomenon reflects a generation grappling with change. Many emotional and behavioral patterns traditionally associated with past decades are resurfacing, often rooted in nostalgia, well-meaning misunderstanding, or changing expectations. Today, more people are noticing older adults applying 90s-style parenting habits—like casual contact, relaxed boundaries, or digital-familiarity—toward their grandkids. This generational contrast continues to spark discussion online, especially as young adults navigate aging parents who resist “back-in-time” expectations yet simultaneously crave meaningful interaction. What’s behind this trend? Why does it resonate now? And how do these dynamics affect family relationships in modern America? This article explores the nuances of growing up alongside a “bad grandpa” who still treats his grandkids like they’re from a different era—without assumptions, explicitly or implicitly. --- ### Why The bad grandpa who still treats his grandkids like teens from the 90s Is Gaining Attention in the U.S.