Contributions of Extended Families to the Support Systems of Metropolitan Area Widows: Limitations of the Modified Kin Network

Abstract

An examination of the economic, service, social and emotional support systems of Chicago area widows indicates an infrequency of appearance of the extended kin. Children and, in the case of younger widows, parents, are frequent contributors to these support systems. Siblings, cousins, nephews or nieces, even grandchildren contribute very infrequently and selectively, most widows not listing such relatives at all.