Adults' Environment and Behavior: Parental Participation in Volunteer or Religious Activities

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Developmental psychologists have long noted that parents serve as role models, shaping the behaviors and habits of their children. Children whose parents act as strong positive models may be more likely to withstand harmful pressures from peer groups. One way parents act as role models is by demonstrating citizenship through volunteer work. Another way is by participating in religious activities, which may enhance the importance of moral and spiritual values in their children's lives.

The new work requirements of welfare reform may make it harder for some low-income parents to find time for volunteer or religious activities. However, if a parent's work adds structure and routine to household functions, families might find it easier to incorporate such activities into their lives. In turn, the social support and structure these activities provide may help parents cope with the changes required by welfare reform. An additional benefit is that higher levels of volunteer work in a community may strengthen the private support system for families in need.

Nationally, 59 percent of children lived with a parent who reported participating in religious activities at least a few times a month, with 55 percent of low-income children (below 200 percent of the poverty level) and 62 percent of higher-income children in this category, a statistically significant difference. Thirty-eight percent of all children lived with a parent who volunteered a few times a month, with 30 percent of low-income children and 43 percent of higher-income children in this category, a statistically significant difference.

In the 13 states surveyed, 49 percent to 71 percent of children lived with a parent who participated in religious activities a few times a month or more. Percentages were above the national average in Alabama, Minnesota, Mississippi, and Texas and below in California, Colorado, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, and Washington.

Between 32 percent and 44 percent of children lived with a parent who volunteered at least a few times a month. Percentages were above the national average in Alabama, Colorado, Minnesota, and Washington and below in New York and Texas.

Between 45 percent and 68 percent of children in low-income families lived with a parent who participated in religious activities a few times a month or more. Percentages were above the national average of 55 percent in Alabama, Mississippi, and Texas and below average in Michigan, New Jersey, Washington, and Wisconsin.

Of children in low-income families, 26 percent to 35 percent lived with a parent who volunteered a few times a month or more. In Mississippi, the percentage was above the national average of 30 percent, and in Texas it was below.

Note: The Portable Document Format (PDF) of this report includes all tables and charts.

The nonpartisan Urban Institute publishes studies, reports, and books on timely topics worthy of public consideration. The views expressed are those of the authors and should not be attributed to the Urban Institute, its trustees, or its funders.

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