Full Citation

Title: Childlessness Predicts Helping of Nieces and Nephews in United States, 1910

Citation Type: Journal Article

Publication Year: 2008

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Abstract: The helpers at the nest hypothesis suggests that individuals who are not currently reproducing often help kin by care-taking and thereby increase their inclusive fitness. Using a large scale historical dataset (Integrated Public Use Microdata Series sample of 1910; n=13,935), the hypothesis is tested that childless couples are more likely to fulfill such a role by taking care of a niece or nephew, but not a parent, than couples with children. Childless couples were significantly more likely to take care of a niece or nephew than couples with children. In contrast, couples with children and childless couples did not differ in care-taking of parents. Childless couples were also more likely to have more and younger nieces/nephews in their home than couples with children.

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Authors: Pollet, Thomas V.; Dunbar, Robin I.M.

Periodical (Full): Journal of Biosocial Science

Issue: 5

Volume: 40

Pages: 761-770

Data Collections: IPUMS USA

Topics: Family and Marriage, Other

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