The developmental stake hypothesis and changing perceptions of intergenerational relations, 1971-1985

This study examines the developmental stake hypothesis as it relates to changing perceptions of intergenerational relations among members of multigenerational families. The data come from the first two waves (1971 and 1985) of a longitudinal study of multigenerational family members (N = 1,057). We find strong support for the developmental stake hypothesis since, at both time periods, parents (both G1s and G2s) saw less distance in their relations with their children (both G2s and G3s). In addition, all respondents perceived less distance between the G2-G3 generations over time. We also found several gender differences in perceptions of family ties. Contrary to our expectations, only G1 respondents perceived less distance between generations in society in 1985 as compared to 1971.