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A Theory of the Value of Grandchildren

Author

Listed:
  • Debra Friedman

    (Arizona State University, Dean, College of Public Programs, Mail Code 3520, 411 N Central Ave, Suite 600, Phoenix, AZ 85004- 0685, USA, debra.friedman@asu.edu)

  • Michael Hechter

    (School of Global Studies, Arizona State University, michael.hechter@asu.edu)

  • Derek Kreager

    (Department of Sociology, Pennsylvania State University, dkreager@psu.edu)

Abstract

As innovations in medical technology extend average longevity, grandparents become increasingly present during the lives of their grandchildren. We propose a theory that seeks to explain differential investment in grandchildren. The theory relies on a fundamental assumption of uncertainty reduction to explain why grandparents in post-industrial societies might find it rational to invest in at least one of their grandchildren. We advance numerous illustrative hypotheses about end of life uncertainty, as well as proportional and differential investments in grandchildren, and discuss the relevance of existing empirical literature.

Suggested Citation

  • Debra Friedman & Michael Hechter & Derek Kreager, 2008. "A Theory of the Value of Grandchildren," Rationality and Society, , vol. 20(1), pages 31-63, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ratsoc:v:20:y:2008:i:1:p:31-63
    DOI: 10.1177/1043463107085436
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Hilbrand, Sonja & Coall, David A. & Meyer, Andrea H. & Gerstorf, Denis & Hertwig, Ralph, 2017. "A prospective study of associations among helping, health, and longevity," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 187(C), pages 109-117.
    2. Zhen Cong & Merril Silverstein, 2019. "A Vignette Study of Older Adults’ Preferences for Intergenerational Transfers in the Context of Competition Between Grandparents and Grandchildren in Rural China," The Journals of Gerontology: Series B, The Gerontological Society of America, vol. 74(3), pages 496-505.
    3. Gretchen Perry & Martin Daly, 2021. "Grandparental partnership status and its effects on caring for grandchildren in Europe," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 16(3), pages 1-17, March.
    4. Joris Ghysels, 2011. "The provision of informal childcare by European grandparents: constraints versus selective preferences," Working Papers 1108, Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy, University of Antwerp.
    5. Christiansen, Solveig Glestad, 2014. "The association between grandparenthood and mortality," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 118(C), pages 89-96.

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