To answer this, we'd need data. This data would likely include:
* High school graduate status: Did the individual graduate from high school? (Yes/No - We only focus on those who answered yes)
* Parental college attendance: Did at least one parent attend college? (Yes/No)
* College attendance: Did the individual attend college after high school? (Yes/No)
With this data, we could perform a statistical analysis, likely a chi-squared test or a logistic regression.
* Chi-squared test: This would assess whether there's a statistically significant association between parental college attendance and the individual's college attendance. It would produce a p-value; a low p-value (typically below 0.05) would suggest a statistically significant association.
* Logistic regression: This would allow us to model the probability of a high school graduate attending college as a function of whether at least one parent attended college. This provides a more nuanced understanding than a chi-squared test, allowing us to quantify the effect.
Expected Outcome:
Most studies would likely show a positive correlation. That is, high school graduates with at least one parent who attended college are significantly more likely to attend college themselves. This is due to several factors, including:
* Socioeconomic factors: Parents with college degrees often have higher incomes, providing better resources (e.g., tutoring, college prep courses, tuition assistance) for their children.
* Cultural factors: Families who value education are more likely to encourage and support their children's pursuit of higher education.
* Social networks: Parents with college degrees may have broader social networks that can offer guidance and opportunities related to college.
However, it's crucial to remember that correlation doesn't equal causation. While the data might show a strong association, it doesn't definitively prove that parental college attendance *causes* increased likelihood of their children attending college. Other factors play a role.