RECIPROCITY IN PARENTS-CHILD RELATIONSHIP S - THEORETICAL CONSIDERATIONS AND EMPIRICAL-EVIDENCE

In this paper we ask whether and how the relationship between parents and children is structured by the norm of reciprocity, especially in t he situation when elderly parents are chronically ill and in need of c are. Since reciprocity is often raised but rarely elaborated we first describe the theoretical conditions under which reciprocity may explai n care for elderly parents. Furthermore, we review existing studies wh ether there is empirical evidence of reciprocity. Contrary to the thes is of Alvin Gouldner there are hints not only for life-historical gene ralized reciprocity, but also for the work of reciprocity in situation s of enduring asymmetrical resources. However, the orientation on reci procity as well as the content of reciprocity depends on demographical and social conditions like the welfare state and the timing of the li fe course. Changes in these conditions are described and their impact on reciprocity in parent-child-relationships as well as on care for el derly parents is discussed.