Citation
Spence, Naomi J. (2008). The Long-Term Consequences of Childbearing: Physical and Psychological Well-Being of Mothers in Later Life.
Research on Aging, 30(6), 722-751. PMCID: PMC2565801
Abstract
Growing evidence points to relationships between patterns of childbearing and health outcomes for mothers; yet a need remains to clarify these relationships over the long-term and to understand the underlying mechanisms. Using data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Mature Women (N=1,608), I find that the long-term consequences of childbearing vary by health outcome. Early childbearing is associated with higher risk of ADL limitations at ages 65-83, though effects appear stronger among white than black mothers until SES is controlled. Early childbearing is also associated with greater levels of depressive symptomatology, though this association is mediated by SES and health. Late childbearing is associated with more depressive symptoms net of early life and current SES, child proximity and support, and physical health. Finally, I find no significant effects of high parity. These findings emphasize the need to better understand the mechanisms linking childbearing histories to later physical and psychological well-being.
URL
http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0164027508322575Reference Type
Journal Article
Year Published
2008
Journal Title
Research on Aging
Author(s)
Spence, Naomi J.
PMCID
PMC2565801