The changes in reported socialization practices of Rajput mothers of Khalapur, India from 1955 to 1975 are presented. A modified version of the socialization interview given to 24 mothers in 1955 was given to 38 mothers from the same families in 1975. During the intervening 20 years, improved grains have resulted in greatly increased prosperity in Khalapur, houses have been expanded to include private rooms for most couples, daughters-in-law are now usually educated, while mothers-in-law are typically illiterate. The effect of these changes has been to increase the power status of daughters-in-law, and decrease both the power of mothers-in-law and the deference accorded to them by their sons' wives. As a result of these alterations in status, mothers now have more direct control over the care and discipline of their children. Mothers in the 1975 sample train their children for greater responsibility and assertiveness, and allow them to cry more and are more severe in dealing with boys than were the mothers in the 1954 sample.
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References
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