MPIDR Working Paper

Convergence towards diversity? Cohort dynamics in the transition to adulthood in contemporary Western Europe

Billari, F. C., Wilson, C.
MPIDR Working Paper WP-2001-039, 30 pages.
Rostock, Max-Planck-Institut für demografische Forschung (Dezember 2001)
Open Access

Abstract

This paper addresses the transition to adulthood in developed countries. It reviews the main theories that have been employed in recent years to explain trends in such variables as age ages at leaving home, union formation, first marriage and first birth. The paper then examines the median ages at which women in nine European countries experienced these events and the inter-quartile range within each cohort. The results do not provide unequivocal support for any of the main theories. In conclusion we offer some speculative remarks on what form an alternative theory might take.
Das Max-Planck-Institut für demografische Forschung (MPIDR) in Rostock ist eines der international führenden Zentren für Bevölkerungswissenschaft. Es gehört zur Max-Planck-Gesellschaft, einer der weltweit renommiertesten Forschungsgemeinschaften.