Virtual: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7905645674
Codi: 1984

Title:
A typology of nuclear and extended family relations in the United States (Bettina Hünteler, Karsten Hank, Diego Alburez-Gutierrez & Thomas Leopold)

Abstract:
Building on the intergenerational solidarity paradigm, numerous studies have identified distinct types of adult parent-child relationships, with (re)growing interest in analyzing other family connections, such as those between siblings or grandparents and adult grandchildren. This study emphasizes the importance of extended family alongside nuclear kin, aiming to develop a comprehensive typology of family relationships across various kin types. Using recent KINMATRIX data, which combines survey, genealogical, and national register data, we examined relationships with the anchor’s father, mother, siblings, half-siblings, grandparents, cousins, aunts, and uncles, distinguishing between gender and maternal and paternal lineage when applicable. A bias-adjusted three-step latent class analysis was applied to 73,706 relationships within 4,503 anchors living in the U.S., including measures for functional, affectual, and associational solidarity, as well as conflict. Four relationship patterns emerged, differing significantly by kin type and socio-demographic characteristics. ‘Ambivalent’ relations were the least common, mostly found in nuclear kin, while ‘tightknit’ relations were most prevalent among parents. ‘Distant’ ties were more common among extended kin, particularly cousins and uncles. Although ‘close’ relationships were less likely to be found in cousins, the absolute number of ‘close’ cousins was similar to that of ‘close’ siblings, underscoring the importance of the demographic availability of kin.