Income, economic satisfaction, and stress in two-generational farm families

Abstract

This descriptive research study explores the relationship between income, economic satisfaction and stress in two-generation farm and ranch families. The sample is composed of 102 fathers, mothers, sons, and daughters-in-law in 25 Montana farm and ranch families. According to the data collected in a mailed questionnaire in the spring of 1984, economic satisfaction is negatively correlated with general stress for the older generation and with stress emanating from stressors common in two-generation family farm operation for the younger generation. Income is significantly correlated with stress for fathers, mothers, and sons, but not for daughters-in-law, and is a greater source of stress for sons than for any other family member. However, the correlations are not always in the expected direction. Application of these findings for professionals and implications for future research are discussed.