Family Size and Achievement

The sibsize revolution is a significant change in American history, with children born since the end of the postwar baby boom coming primarily from small families. This book explores the cognitive and educational consequences of families of different sizes.

Format: Hardback
Length: 426 pages
Publication date: 15 July 2022
Publisher: University of California Press

The children born since the end of the postwar baby boom are a remarkable generation in American history, marking a significant shift towards smaller families. According to Judith Blake, this transformative phenomenon is known as the "sibsize revolution." This book delves into the profound cognitive and educational implications for children raised in families of varying sizes.

This title is a part of UC Press' Voices Revived program, a prestigious initiative dedicated to re-establishing the voices of exceptional scholars from the past. By resurrecting a backlist dating back to 1893, UC Press leverages print-on-demand technology to make high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again. This particular title was first published in 1989 and holds a valuable place in academic discourse.

The postwar baby boom, which occurred after World War II, resulted in a significant increase in the number of births in the United States. However, the children born in this period are unique in that they are the first generation in American history to predominantly come from small families. Families of three or fewer children have become the norm, a departure from the larger families that were prevalent in previous generations.

The sibsize revolution, as coined by Judith Blake, signifies a profound shift in family dynamics and its impact on children's development. Smaller families offer a different kind of environment and experience compared to larger families. Research has shown that children raised in smaller families tend to have more resources, attention, and individualism, which can have positive effects on their cognitive and educational outcomes.

For instance, children in smaller families may have more opportunities to engage in one-on-one activities with their parents, which can foster stronger parent-child relationships and promote cognitive development. They may also have more time and attention dedicated to their education, leading to better academic performance and higher achievement.

However, it is important to note that the impact of family size on children's development is not a one-size-fits-all phenomenon. Different factors, such as parental involvement, socioeconomic status, and cultural values, can also play a significant role in shaping children's outcomes.

In conclusion, the children born since the end of the postwar baby boom are a testament to the changing landscape of American families. The sibsize revolution has brought about a shift towards smaller families, offering unique cognitive and educational consequences for children. While smaller families may provide certain advantages, it is crucial to recognize that family size is just one of many factors that influence children's development. By understanding the complexities of family dynamics and providing support and resources to all families, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.

Weight: 816g
Dimension: 234 x 156 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520369498