Parental religious socialization practices and self-esteem in late life

The purpose of this study is to assess the relationship between parental religious socialization practices and self-esteem in late life. The core theoretical thrust that was developed for this study is captured in the following linkages: (1) older Afirican Americans will be more likely than older Whites to report that their parents encouraged them to become involved in religion when they were growing up; (2) people whose parents encouraged them to become involved in religion will be more likely to attend church and pray privately in late life; (3) older adults who attend church often and pray frequently will be more committed to their faith; (4) older people who are more deeply committed to theirfaith will have a stronger sense of self-worth. Data from a nationwide survey of older adults provides support for all the relationships embedded in the study model.