The Link Between Education Within Social Networks and Volunteering
2024
The Link Between Education in Social Networks and Volunteering
Sample size: 342
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Webster Noah
Primary Institution: University of Michigan
Hypothesis
How do educational resources in older adults' social networks affect their likelihood of volunteering?
Conclusion
Higher average education in social networks is linked to increased odds of volunteering among older adults.
Supporting Evidence
- 41% of respondents reported volunteering in the past year.
- Higher average social network education was significantly associated with greater odds of volunteering.
- Individual education's effect on volunteering was not significant when network education was included.
Takeaway
Older people are more likely to volunteer if their friends and family have higher education levels.
Methodology
Analysis of data from Wave 3 of the Social Relations Study, focusing on social network education and volunteering.
Participant Demographics
Respondents aged 60 and older from Metro Detroit.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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