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Intergenerational Interdependence: Mid-Life Couples’ Help Exchange in a Three-Generational Model

University of Nebraska–Lincoln

This research examined the extent to which help exchanged between generations is female-based and how husband and wife as a couple interact with their children and aging parents. Data from 84 middle-aged intact married couples in Indiana and Michigan were taken froma regional survey done in nine states. The data, gathered as reports from middle-generation couples concerning the help they received from and gave to their parents and children, were analyzed by LISREL. The results showed that women’s intergenerational exchange behaviors were good predictors of the help they and their spouses as a couple exchanged with other generations. In addition, the more help a couple received from their parents, the more help they gave to their children. Intergenerational transmission of helping patterns played an important role in the two-way exchanges between kin in the scope of three generations. The norm of reciprocity also made important contributions to the intergenerational exchange.

Key Words: social exchange • reciprocity • parent-child • couple

Family and Consumer Sciences Research Journal, Vol. 32, No. 3, 275-290 (2004)
DOI: 10.1177/1077727X03261175


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