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Convergence towards diversity? Cohort dynamics in the transition to adulthood in contemporary Western Europe

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  • Francesco C. Billari

    (Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research, Rostock, Germany)

  • Chris Wilson

    (Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research, Rostock, Germany)

Abstract

This paper addresses the transition to adulthood in developed countries. It reviews the main theories that have been employed in recent years to explain trends in such variables as age ages at leaving home, union formation, first marriage and first birth. The paper then examines the median ages at which women in nine European countries experienced these events and the inter-quartile range within each cohort. The results do not provide unequivocal support for any of the main theories. In conclusion we offer some speculative remarks on what form an alternative theory might take.

Suggested Citation

  • Francesco C. Billari & Chris Wilson, 2001. "Convergence towards diversity? Cohort dynamics in the transition to adulthood in contemporary Western Europe," MPIDR Working Papers WP-2001-039, Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research, Rostock, Germany.
    • Handle: RePEc:dem:wpaper:wp-2001-039
    DOI: 10.4054/MPIDR-WP-2001-039
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Francesco C. Billari & Dimiter Philipov & Pau Baizán Munoz, 2001. "Leaving home in Europe: the experience of cohorts born around 1960," MPIDR Working Papers WP-2001-014, Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research, Rostock, Germany.
    2. Kohler, Hans-Peter, 2001. "Fertility and Social Interaction: An Economic Perspective," OUP Catalogue, Oxford University Press, number 9780199244591.
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    5. Ronald Rindfuss, 1991. "The Young Adult Years: Diversity, Structural Change, and Fertility," Demography, Springer;Population Association of America (PAA), vol. 28(4), pages 493-512, November.
    6. Linda Hantrais, 1997. "Exploring Relationships between Social Policy and Changing Family Forms within the European Union," European Journal of Population, Springer;European Association for Population Studies, vol. 13(4), pages 339-379, December.
    7. J. E. Stiglitz, 2000. "Conclusions," Economic Notes, Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena SpA, vol. 29(1), pages 145-151, February.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • J1 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics
    • Z0 - Other Special Topics - - General

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