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Rationality and Society, Vol. 20, No. 1, 31-63 (2008)
DOI: 10.1177/1043463107085436
© 2008 SAGE Publications

A Theory of the Value of Grandchildren

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{at}asu.edu

Michael Hechter

School of Global Studies, Arizona State University, michael.hechter{at}asu.edu

Derek Kreager

Department of Sociology, Pennsylvania State University, dkreager{at}psu.edu

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.

Key Words: grandparents • grandchildren • rational choice • intergenerational transfer • elder care


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