Examining the Inter-Generational Transmission of Patriarchy: Results From a National Sample

Efforts to understand continuity and change in behavior within individuals and families has once again come to the forefront of criminological thought. One particular theoretical articulation that argues for continuity within the family is Hagan et al.'s (1985) power-control theory. Specifically, Hagan suggests that levels of patriarchy within families are reproduced in their offspring such that offspring will exhibit attitudes toward patriarchy that are similar to those possessed by their parents. Using data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth, we investigate Hagan's hypothesis as it relates to the intergenerational transmission of patriarchy. Specifically, our research has two useful features. First, we examine whether attitudinal levels of patriarchy among mothers are reproduced in her offspring. Second, we examine the covariates that might be responsible for the differences between maternal and offspring levels of patriarchy. The theoretical implications of our research are discussed.