Intergenerational Continuity of Attitudes and Values About Dogs

Intergenerational continuity of attitudes and values has been documented in a number of studies suggesting that the family is a potent factor in socialization. This study examines the continuity of attitudes and values about dogs as companion animals across two generations. Specifically, it is a multi-stage study of attitudes of lineal family members, owners and non-owners, toward companion animals, especially when there is a new baby in the house. Data were collected by means of mailed questionnaires from a random sample of 454 young married couples with one child and a referral sample of their parents. Variables include: demographic characteristics of respondents; and attitudes toward dogs, especially when there is a new baby in the home. Attitudes of grandmothers and grandfathers explain a very small but significant share of adult children's attitudes when children's social class and spouses' attitudes are taken into account. Also, the young-adult generation has somewhat more positive attitudes than do their parents. This would seem to suggest that factors other than socialization by parents play a role in the formation of these attitudes and values. Indeed, the strongest predictor of young adults' attitudes and values are the attitudes and values of their spouses. Results of the study shed light on the role the family plays in socializing children about companion animals that will be useful to those concerned with targeting humane educational programs, as well as to family researchers interested in the socialization process.