Explains that from a prediction standpoint the confluence model is not very efficient. Very modest increments in accuracy are associated with family configuration variables once chronological age is covaried. Suggests that the major postulates of the theory be tested directly, within individuals and with longitudinal data. (Author/AS)

The hypothesis that the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) score decline is a result of changing American family sizes and configurations is explored. This possible explanation of declining SAT scores had been offered by Robert B. Zajonc in an article discussing the relation between family configuration and cognitive development. Since a number of…