The Value and Cost of Children: Cross- generational and Sex Differences In Perceptions Among Parents
Abstract
This study investigated the nature and congruence of attitudes concerning the value of children using the Fawcett Value of Children questionnaire. Subjects were parents and grandparents of preschool children (N = 135). Analyses of variance (ANOVA) and Pearson product-moment correlations were performed to assess differences and congruences among subgroups studied. Generational differences tended to be stronger and more frequent than sex differences. Husbands and wives showed relatively little value agreement. There was no congruence among fathers and sons or mothers and daughters on any of the nine ques tionnaire scales. Results are discussed in relation to economic, social, and life-cycle devel opmental issues.