Sociology Test 6 Ch. 14 Domestic Violence and Other Family Health Issues Ch. 15 Separation, Divorce, Remarriage, and Stepfamilies

How Divorce Affects Children p. 444

1 million American children undergo parental breakup every yr 40% exp parental divorce before reaching adulthood children from divorced families experience variety of difficulties, lower academic achievement, behavioral problems, a lower self-concept, some long-term health problems some negative effects of divorce short term, others last longer

The Stepfamily Cycle p. 454

1-Fantasy 2-Immersion 3-Awareness 4-Mobilization 5-Action 6-Contact 7-Resolution

Who Pays and Gets Child Support? p. 442

2009 almost 14 million parents custody of 22 million children while other parent lived somewhere else majority 51% had some type of legal court agreement for child support parent is most likely to receive the full amount of court-ordered child-support payments if she or he has at least a college degree , has divorced, is age 40 or older and works full-time year-round custodial parents least likely to receive child support never married black mothers younger than age 30, don't have h.s. diploma, depend on public assistance approx 30% custodial parents receive less child support than supposed to do, 30% receive none

Gender p. 441

2009 recently divorced women twice as likely as recently divorced men to be in poverty 22% and 11% approx 27% of women , compared w/ 17% of men, less than $25,000 annual household income, women, despite high labor participation rates, more likely than men to be receiving public assistance major reason for women's financial strain is 82% all divorce cases, children live w/ mom 5% nationally divorced mom improve economic situation by marrying successful men, find high paying jobs or both most have financial problems, even after moving in w/ parents or siblings, b/c lack marketable skills for well paying jobs and receive little if any alimony or child support or public assistance

How Common Is Remarriage? p. 447

2010, 29% divorced adults said like marry again widowed men/women, 8% wanted remarry divorced/widowed, 54% women 31%men did not want remarry many Americans not plan remarry, remarriage is common 2009 second marriage 12% all married people those married 3+ accounted 3% US remarriage rate highest in world median time between divorce and second marriage short millions American married 3+ times remarried spawned services - mags, books like divorce, remarriage is process rather than one-time act like divorce, remarriage involves series of stages

Child Support and Visitation p. 443

2011, 83% moms who received child support had visitation arrangements w/ child's father many middle class parents, esp fathers avoid child support payments b/c don't agree w/ visitation rights or believe ex spouse is squeezing them for money lower-income fathers, many dead broke rather than deadbeat dad

Some Demographic Characteristics of Stepfamilies p. 452

42% of American adults have at least one steprelative adults under 30, 52% one steprelative 34% those age 65+ higher share blacks 60% Latinos 46% or whites 39% have stepfamily black men 24% white men 15% Latino men 7% have stepchildren 33% college grad one steprelative, 46% w/o degree 36% annual incomces $75,000 higher one stepfamily 50% annual income less $30,000 variations reflect changing attitudes /family structures young adults more likely than older counterparts grown up in divorced families or with unmarried parents black marriage rates have dropped since 1960s college grads more likely to postpone marriage, have lower divorce rates all factors help explain why groups more likely than others have stepfamilies

Divorce Rates Have Decreased p. 433

43-46% lifetime American marriages end in divorce divorce rates rose steadily 20th century climbed during 1960s, 1970s began dropping in 1995 divorce rates lower today than 30 yrs ago major reason for lower divorce rates is many people postponing marriage 2009 1/3 women /men ages 25-29 never been married cohabiting couples in trial marriages break up instead of getting married, then divorcing more education people have more likely stay married

Some Characteristics of Successful Stepfamilies p. 460

6 characteristics common to stepfamilies in which children and adults experience warm interpersonal relations and satisfaction. 1- develop realistic expectations 2- let children mourn their losses 3- forge a strong couple relationship 4- stepparent takes on a disciplinary role gradually 5- stepfamilies develop their own rituals 6- work out arrangements between the children's households

Impairment of the Caregiver or the Care Recipient p. 415

70 yr old caring for 90 yr old frail, ill, mentally disabled unaware he or she being abusive or neglectful cognitive impairment

Cultural Values and Social Integration p. 435

Americans acceptance of divorce grown lg majority Americans 68% divorce more acceptable than gambling 64% having baby outside marriage 60% gay or lesbian relations 59% abortion 42% 67% Americans said children better off if their unhappy parents get divorce rather than remain married social scientists maintain greater acceptance of divorce due to many Americans emphasizing individual happiness over family commitments changes in cultural values and rising individualism decreased social integration - social bonds that people have with others and the community at large lower social integration increases divorce rates spouses less likely interact and spend time together more likely pursue interests and activities on own rather than together married people value privacy and prefer solitary activities - watching tv, using social media rather than interacting w/ spouses/children or socializing w/ friends

Interrelated and Cumulative Effects of Divorce p. 445

Divorce usually decreases children's well-being both initially and over the life course for children, parental income loss, residential changes, school relocation may be more harmful than divorce itself children lose stable environment, emotional and economic security, ready access to both parents such stressful transitions may undermine self-confidence and create difficulties in forming and maintaining satisfying intimate relationships later in life children who grow up in divorced family up to twice as likely to end own marriages although debated, divorce cycle or intergenerational transmission of divorce posits children model their parent's conflictual relationships after divorce grandparents divorce, second generation exp lower educational attainment and problematic relationships

Phase Two: The Acute Battering Incident p. 401

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde rational and gentle changes into an unreasonable and brutal exploding in rage and beating or otherwise abusing his partner Some women who have lived w/ abuse for long time, anticipate this phase and trigger the violent incident to get it over with

Fear p. 404

Fear is major reason for staying in an abusive relationship men threaten kill woman, relatives, children if tries to escape husbands track down families from as far away as 1,000 miles and threaten violence to get them to return judges issue protective orders, the orders are temporary, and offenders still assault their partners at home, even if locks changed, workplaces, public places - parking lots abusive before, threats of retaliation real , many victims live in constant fear all these factors help explain why many women stay in abusive relationships staying may mean abuse and violence, but leaving may mean death bureaucracy promise safety, but not ensure it risk cannot take social scientists point out, leaving abusive partner isn't clear cut as seems often long process involves numerous changes, such as thinking about leaving, preparing to leave (establish secret savings/checking accounts), taking action (speaking to counselor), trying improve relationship all of stages, women ambivalent about preserving father-child relationship that's not abusive, having few available resources for selves and children intimate partner violence takes different forms, but goal always the same: control of the partner through fear and intimidation

Intimate Partner Violence and Abuse p. 395

IPV is abuse that occurs between two people in a close relationship term intimate partner refers to current and former spouse, couples who live together, and current or former boyfriends or girlfriends social scientists use terms intimate partner violence and domestic violence interchangeably, whereas others use intimate partner violence to specifically address the people who are involved in a close personal relationship.

Social Class p. 399

IPV more common in low-income families social class doesn't cause IPV b/c perpetrators and victims include people from all income and education levels socioeconomically disadvantaged women and men more likely than others to have grown up in abusive households to cohabit be unemployed live in poverty and have unintended pregnancies or more children than they can afford to raise - all of which increase the likelihood of IPV in middle-class, IPV 2-4 times more common in police families than general pop women in high socioeconomic exp IPV

Economic Hardship and Homelessness p. 403

If abuses women don't work outside the home or if they have few marketable skills, they see no way to survive economically if they leave the abuser. many batterers keep their partners in economic chains nothing in woman's name - not checking, savings, autos, homes isolate victims from friends/relatives - women have no one to turn to those who might offer place to stay afraid might endanger own family w/o resources, some abused women who do leave become homeless abused women nowhere to go hundreds turned away from shelters - overcrowding, underfunding leaving man or filing charges may push woman and children into poverty

Phase Three: Calm (The Honeymoon Phase) p. 401

Mr. Hyde becomes Dr. Jekyll begging forgiveness and promising he will never beat her again. if she is hospitalized, he will indulge her w/ gifts may also get his family members, relatives, friends build up victim's guilt telling her father shouldn't be separated from children many battered women hold traditional values about love and marriage, wife convinces herself this time he'll really change

Lifestyle Choices p. 419

US is among wealthiest nations in world, but far from healthiest compared w/ 16 other high income countries, US ranks last or near last in 9 key ares of health include lung, heart disease, homicide, sexually transmitted disease no single factor fully explains why Americans now dying younger ages than counterparts in other high income countries, poorer health in US due to lifestyle choices, particularly smoking, obesity, and substance abuse

Intervention p. 426

US programs and laws designed intervene in family crises Violence Against Women Act credited with lowering rate of homicide for abused women 65% since law passed in 1994 Watchful Sheppard nonprofit organization protects at risk children w/ electronic devices children use to contact emergency personnel feel threatened or fear abuse unexpected positive outcome is use of device by parents fear losing control many ineffective staff overworked, underfunded police/judges don't enforce domestic violence laws successful: permanent court order of protection counseling little effect arrests, restraining orders

Why Do Women Stay? p. 402

Walker theorized cycle of violence often results in learned helplessness - the woman becomes depressed, loses her self-esteem, and feels incapable of seeking help or escaping the abusive relationship. Not clear, whether women had these personality traits before they met the abusers, whether the traits are due to the abuse, or a combination of both Why do these women stay? strategies to change situation: hitting back, contacting local domestic violence shelters, calling the police, obtaining restraining/protection orders, disclosing their abusive experiences to family members, friends, neighbors, and/or co-workers, terminating relationship some find courage to leave only when suddenly realize abuse spilled over to children no single reason why some women don't leave violent relationships multiple and overlapping explanations

Some Characteristics of Abusive and Violent Households p. 397

abusers share some common characteristics men also victims severe physical violence by intimate partner psychological abuse men more likely than women commit familycide - murdering one's spouse, ex-spouse, children, or other relatives men who slaughter families called familyannihilators

Child Maltreatment p. 405

abusing or killing one's children isn't modern crime Puritans - men not only offenders 1638 Dorothy Talbie hanged Boston murdering daughter - 3 yrs 1946, observing unexplained fractures in children seen over yrs, pediatric radiologist John Caffey suggested children had been abused physician C. Henry Kempe 1962 published article on battered-child syndrome child abuse became household term only in 1980s

Race and Ethnicity p. 399

across all racial-ethnic groups, women more likely than men to be IPV victims over lifetim multiracial and American Indian women report highest abuse rates Asian American women report lowest Alaska Native and multiracial exp IPV

Who are the abusers? p. 414

adult children, spouses,other family members, cohabiting partners less third acquaintances, neighbors or nonfamily service providers avg age abuser is 45, 77% white 61% males 82% h.s. diploma or less 50% abuse alcohol,drugs 46% criminal record 42% fin dependent on elder 37% live with elder 29% chronically unemployed, 25% mental health problems

Living in a Stepfamily p. 456

adults have problems - so do children adults resilient and adjust, so do children

Intergenerational Relationships p. 459

adults who have parent and stepparent 85% feel obligated to help biological parent comp. 56% who feel same about stepparent older divorced fathers avg age 65 and have new biological children have less contact w/ adult children from previous marriage and provide less financial support ties across generations can be close, loving or disruptive and intrusive after divorce or remarriage, grandparents can provide important sense of continuity for children at time when other things are changing

Divorce Laws p. 434

all states have no fault divorce laws so neither partner needs to establish guilt or wrongdoing on part of other before no fault laws, the partner who initiated divorce had to prove the other to blame for collapse of marriage - adultery, desertion or physical and mental cruelty couples now give irreconcilable differences or incompatibibility valid reason for divorce divorce more accessible and inexpensive b/c large number of attorneys and free legal clinics

Parenting in Stepfamilies p. 456

almost 16% American children younger than 18 live in stepfamily Asian American children least likely to do so b/c Asian women lowest nonmarital birth rates/divorce rates stepfamilies number issues attempt to merge - naming, sexual boundaries, legal issues, distributing economic and emotional resources

Physical and Emotional Abuse p. 411

almost all children hit sibling occ. habitual attacks problematic 2009, 39% children 2-17 yrs been physically assaulted by sister or brother at least once 6-12, 72% been physically assaulted 24% all cases, assaults serious enough to call police most conflict no weapons, but still traumatic most common forms of sibling abuse name calling ridicule degradation intimidation torturing and killing pet destroying personal possession kids report parents rarely take physical or emotional abuse by siblings seriously parents might escalate violence by treating children differently or showing favoritism might describe child smart one and other as lazy labeling discourages respect, creates resentment aggression more dangerous, 10% all murders in families are siblicides = killing a brother or sister, and account for more 2% of murders nationwide avg age victim is 33, during early/middle adulthood men more likely than women either offenders 88% or victims 84% most common reason siblicide argument between perpetrator and victim ignoring or intervening briefly in sibling violence doesn't teach kid skill need for regulating behavior throughout life learn aggression acceptable

What is Elder Mistreatment? p. 413

also called elder abuse, is a single or repeated act, or failing to do something, by a caregiver that results in harm or risk of harm to an older person physical abuse negligence financial exploitation psychological abuse deprivation of basic necessities such as food, heat isolation from friends and family not administering needed medications some die of starvation, bedsores people age 60 + almost 12% exp one of mistreatment emotional physical sexual financial neglect

Stress p. 409

also increases maltreatment IPV unmarried teen parent, infant aggravate stress 2011 - 11% abused children had mental disability, visual , hearing impairment, learning and/or behavioral problem, physical disability coping w/ disability can increase parental stress and child abuse

Emotional Abuse p. 406

also psychological abuse is a caregiver's behavior that conveys to a child that she or he is flawed, worthless, unloved, or unwanted emotional abuse can be continual or triggered by a specific situation constant criticism, put-downs, sarcasm spurning - rejecting child verbally/nonverbally terrorizing, isolating, exploiting or corrupting, permitting or encouraging child antisocial behavior

Separation and Reconciliation p. 431

approx 10% married US couples sep. gotten back together 10% divorcing couples taken required parenting classes, both interested in reconciliation, no data on if they do

Remarriage Stability p. 450

avg duration of first/second marriage approx. 8 yrs third marriage end in divorce typically last 5 yrs 60% remarriages, comp. w/ 45% first marriage end in divorce why divorce rates higher remarriage than first marriage? 1- those who marry as teens remarry at young age more likely divorce second marriage 2- people most likely redivorce see divorce quick solution for marital dissatisfaction having survived one divorce, believe another divorce remedy for unhappy marriage may exert less effort make remarriage work or unwilling invest time/energy try to resolve problems 3- women who have child between marriages, more like divorce intermarital birth may require newly married couple cop w/ infant rather than devote time to relationship 4- remarried couples deal w/ more boundary maintenance issues than first marriage

Elder Mistreatment p. 413

baby boomers often called sandwich generation b/c must care for children and aging parents most people adept meeting needs of both others mistreat children or parents or both

Blaming Themselves p. 403

battered women often believe that they brought the violence on themselves men who batter may be well-respected professional athletes, community leaders, or attorneys women start thinking that b/c men have good reputation, abuse must be their fault partly likely if women have seen their mothers/ grandmothers suffer similar treatment "stop provoking him" nowhere to go tells you shut up, shut up abusive tradition is passed on women believe that they're responsible for preventing male violence, if don't succeed, must accept consequences some priests, ministers, rabbis remind woman she's married for better for worse, religious women may feel guilty and sinful for wanting to leave

The Cycle of Domestic Violence p. 400

battered-woman syndrome - a condition that describes a woman who has experienced many years of physical abuse but feels unable to leave her partner controversial b/c abused women have option of leaving abusers instead of killing them cycle of domestic violence involves three phases

Resource Theory p. 418

because men usually command greater financial, educational, social resources than women do, men have more power men w/ fewest resources are most likely to resort to abuse women can't assert selves b/c have fewer resources than partners decline of resources also increase stress and provoke violence man contribution to earnings decreases relative to wife or man exp spells of unemployment, woman likely exp abuse sit aggraviated by living disadvantaged neighborhood, lg number kids, wife refusal to work more hrs outside home

Emotional Divorce p. 431

begins before people take any legal steps beginning phase spouses feel disillusioned but hope that the marriage will improve middle phase - hurt or angry feelings increase unhappier partner evaluating rewards/costs of leaving marriage end phase - one of partners stops caring and detaches emotionally from other apathy indifference replace loving intimate feelings some postpone divorce at least 5 yrs

Age and Gender p. 449

being single after divorce doesn't last long half Americans who remarry after divorce from first marriage do so w/in 4 yrs avg age first remarriage is 33 yrs for women, 36 for men remarriage rates lower for age 49 and younger one in five men/women age 50-69 married twice age 60+ men more likely than women been married 3 + times women who most likely remarry are those married young age first time, low education levels, few marketable skills, want children esp. attractive to older divorced or widowed men who want traditional wife remarriage less common among college-educated women - they postpone marriage, have lower divorce rates, less likely to rely on men for economic resources older woman is, harder to remarry each age group b/c men choose women younger and women choose men older, pool of eligible acceptable marriage partners expands for men, shrinks for women reason for women's lower remarriage rates, esp age 60 older want more freedom, older men remarry to have caregiver in old age

Early Separation p. 430

besides feeling ambivalent about leaving a marriage, the couple is plagued by many questions, both important and trivial

Some Positive Outcomes of Divorce for Children and Adults p. 446

biggest benefit of divorce is it decreases the amount of stress that children undergo high conflict home which adults yell, scream, throw things, poison atmosphere w/ emotional or physical abuse. children/young adults fare well if ex-spouses maintain good communication w/ children and each other, if children are comfortable staying in both parent's homes, if spend alot of time w/ nonresident parent, and if a parents relocation doesn't disrupt the children's everyday life noncustodial father may spend more time w/ children than did before divorce ties improve when adolescents and young adults - esp. those w/ few educational or occupational resources - feel can count on fathers for financial support/advice regarding issues such as unwanted pregnancy or marriage at young age major positive outcome for adults is ending a high-conflict marriage those who leave violent/abusive marriage physically/mentally stronger, and more able to establish healthier relationship w/ children. both sexes cite gains 2 yrs after divorce, women more likely to do so than men women esp say enjoy new-found freedom, developing own self-identity, not having answer to domineering husband divorced men report benefits spending more money on selves or hobbies, better off financially (esp. not support ex-wives or children) having more leisure time, dating numerous people even w/ high divorce rates, most aren't disillusioned about marriage many remarry, some more than once, and resulting family relationships can be intricate.

Victims p. 406

birth to age 17, girls 51% slightly more likely than boys 49% maltreated most common form abuse is neglect most vulnerable younger than 3 yrs - 27% child victims decreases w/ age 44% white, 22% black, 22% Hispanic African American, American Indian/Alaska Native and multiracial children highest victimization rates highest among whites, more prevalent among some minority groups than others

Social Exchange Theory p. 419

both assailants and victims tolerate or engage in violent behavior because they believe that the benefits outweigh the costs battered women stay in relationship b/c financial reasons rewards for perpetrators include release of anger and frustration and accumulation of power and control often spend little time in jail, abused women take them back violence has costs 1- victim may hit back proportion of parents killed by one of their children rose from 9.7% in 1980 to 13% in 2008 2-violent assault could lead to arrest or imprisonment and a loss of status among family and friends 3- abuser may break up the family if patriarchal society condones male control of women and children, the costs will be minimal

Naming p. 456

calling mom or dad calling by first name - impersonal and disrespectful use of kinship terms goes hand in hand w/ feeling genuine fatherhood

Military Service p. 434

can be source of upward mobility when recruits learn new skills, earn promotions to higher ranks and higher pay education benefits factors increase marital satisfaction , decrease divorce risk despite benefits, military service - esp. during wars in Iraq and Afghanistan believed increased divorce rates b/c extended duty, deployment been difficult on soldiers and families divorce rates among male enlistees not officers, gradually increased but rate among female soldiers surged mid 2007 female soldiers in US Army filing divorce 3 times higher than male civilian husband not understand why military wives work long hrs

Quality of Parenting p. 445

child adjustment to divorce depends on quality of parenting after marriage ends inability to be effective parents afterward does damage cooperative parenting benefits children's well being when both parents communicate regularly, maintain similar rules both households, support each other's authority children have fewer behavior problems than those with feuding parents closer relationships w/ nonresidential parents 20 yrs after parents' divorce, 62% children said their relationship w/ noncustodial father had improved or remained stable over time combination of pre and post divorce factors, esp continued conflict between parents, father's low involvement w/ his children after a divorce, and father's quick remarriage

What Is Child Maltreatment? p. 405

child maltreatment often used interchangeably w/ child abuse includes broad range of behaviors that place a child at serious risk or result in serious harm. term involves either harmful acts or failure to act responsibly by biological parent, stepparent, foster parent, and adoptive parent other caregivers - clergy, coaches, teachers, babysitters most common types of child maltreatment physical and sexual abuse, neglect, emotional abuse

Child Support p. 442

child support is usually critical issue

Child Custody p. 441

children caught in middle of custody battles custody is court-mandated ruling regarding which divorced parent will have the primary responsibility for the child upbringing children live w/ custodial parent but see noncustodial parent according to specific visitation schedules some cases, father gets kids by default when mom doesn't want kids, child protective agencies seek father involvement, or child want to live w/ dad

Distributing Economic Resources p. 457

children of remarried fathers typically financial disadvantage if children live w/ custodial mom stepchildren living w/ remarried father may receive more support, loans, gifts, health coverage loss of economic support impoverish biological children and create hostility partners must decide whether pool resources and how to do so may experience stress and resentment if financial obligations to former family b/c men have more economic resources than women,stepfathers may have more decision-making power in new family sometimes men use money to control wives and stepchildren behavior

Substance Abuse p. 409

children whose parents abuse alcohol/drugs 3 times more likely to be abused and 5 times more likely to be neglected have poor parenting skills typically don't give children emotional support or monitor them 9 million children - 13% all children in US, live in house parent or adult uses, manufactures, distributes illicit drugs 81% cases of maltreatment, substance abuse rated worst or second worst problem in home

Alcohol Abuse p. 415

common among offenders daily alcohol consumption twice likely among abusers

Sibling Abuse p. 411

common that parents dismiss it as normal physical, emotional, sexual abuse among siblings leave emotional scars national survey, sibling aggression - bullying, property damage, physical fighting increases child depression, anxiety, anger last yrs

Preseparation p. 430

couple experiences gradual emotional alienation financial costs of ending marriage important considerations

Economic Divorce p. 432

couple may argue who should pay past debts, property taxes, new expenses financial conflict continue after legal questions settled

Cohabitation p. 436

couples who live together higher chance of divorce if marry, risk divorce highest among those engage in serial cohabitation by living w/ diff. partners over time cohab. trend more accepting divorce, less committed to marriage and fewer skills in coping w/ marital problems marital commitment prior to cohabitation definite plans for marriage decreases likelihood of negative interaction and divorce

Remarriage Satisfaction p. 450

data on remarital satisfaction mixed people first marriage report greater satisfaction than remarried spouses, but difference small esp if remarried parents have stable relationship and mom feels child lives going well remarried mom benefit psychologically from remarriage and happier than divorced mom researchers report remarried spouses more likely than those first marriages to be critical, angry, irritable esp during first yrs remarriage stress reflect same poor communication and problem soling skills led to previous divorce remarriages may suffer from increased stress due to behavioral problems adolescent stepchildren

Suicide p. 424

depression may lead to suicide, taking one's life 2010 more Americans died suicide than car accident 38,000 American killed selves in 2010 avg 105 each day males take lives 4 times rate of females, 79% all US suicides suicide rates males highest age 75 highest female 45-54 second leading cause of death 15-34 yr old third leading death 15-24 yr 2011, 13% h.s. students planned suicide 2002-2012 US soldiers active and vets killed selves than died in Iraq and Afghanistan ward 2010, 9 million adults age 18 older 4% pop seriously considered committing suicide 1999 to 2010 suicide rate among Americans 35-64 rose 30% higher other age groups most pronounced increases men in 50s women 60-64 all age groups suicide rates unreported reasons - family guilt, shame, life insurance policies don't pay out suicide spike of suicides people in 50s 60s, upturn may due to economic downturn began late 2007, increased families turmoil, availability opioid drugs, mens reluctance seek help , women inability cope stress sandwich generation suicide associated w/ family history depression, mental illness, substance abuse, physical illness, feeling alone, living with drug users, access guns poisons, bullying peer victimization, sexual physical abuse, stress vets,

Parental Problems Before A Divorce p. 444

divorce crystallizes rather than creates long-standing family problems partners who divorce likely to have poor parenting skills, high levels of marital conflict, or suffer from persistent economic stress well before a separation or divorce occurs children in pre-divorce families have more internalizing problems more externalizing problems, poor social skills, difficulties increase the likelihood of poor academic progress at least 3 yrs before the divorce children also experience several yrs lower test scores, more disciplinary problems even if parents initiate divorce proceedings but then change minds

Economic Hardship p. 445

divorce may reduce parental conflict but the financial problems usually increase, esp for mothers mom income usually drops 1/3 after divorce mens income increases = not having physical custody of the children , not complying w/ child-support orders, having higher-paying jobs than their ex-wives do, often taking some of family's wealth first 2 yrs after divorce, family income falls 30% for white children, 53% African American children major reason for difference is white mothers receive 10 times much child support as do black women long term economic costs of divorce esp pronounced for black women b/c less likely to remarry and more likely to divorce after remarriage chances of exp. negative economic outcomes double by 18 adolescents undergo multiple parental transitions such as many romantic relationships, cohabiting, remarrying, or getting divorce after remarriage greater stability after their parent's divorce increases children's financial well-being in adulthood

Economic Effects p. 440

divorce often results in economic setbacks wealth decreases alimony is divisive women usually fare worse financially than men after divorce

Social Class p. 437

divorce rates lowest among those w/ college degree, highest those w/ college those w/ h.s. education have divorce rates fall between other two groups among divorced women age 25 + , 16% college degree, compared w/ 26% h.s. grad 39% some college not smarter, college degree postpones marriage, w/ result college grad often more mature, able deal w/ personal crises when marry higher incomes, better health care, both reduce financial stress characteristics of responsibility necessary for college grad increase likelihood of having stable marriage education closely related to income, another predictor of likelihood of divorce people with higher and lower incomes hold similar values toward marriage, have similar standards for choosing marriage partner, experience similar relationship problems economic problems more common among lower income couples, increasing likelihood of stress, arguments, divorce

Physical, Emotional and Psychological Effects p. 439

divorced people generally worse off than married people report more health problems, greater social isolation, more stress, less social support, more depression

How Children Fare p. 459

don't fare as well as children in biological families tend to have more problems academically, lower grades , scores on achievement tests, school attendance, high school graduation rates even if family economic resources increase after remarriage, alternating residences during school year raises child's risk of dropping out of school or having problems w/ school authorities how children fare depends on relationships among children, custodial and noncustodial parents and stepparents close relationships w/ stepfathers, noncustodial fathers, noncustodial mothers associated w/ better adolescent outcomes, decreasing likelihood externalizing behavior

Theoretical Explanations of the Effects of Stepfamilies on Children p. 460

dozen theoretical explanations of effects of stepfamilies on children Family Stress Theories say living in a stepfamily creates numerous difficulties for children and other family members Risk and resilience theories maintain that the effects of remarriage on children involve both costs (risks) and benefits (resources that increase resilience) Social Capital theories, children in stepfamily households have more problems than children in nuclear families because the stepparents often invest less time and energy in raising their children. Cumulative Effects Hypothesis - children whose parents have had several partners over time display more internalizing and externalizing problems than children who lived with a parent who had remarried only once.

Economy p. 434

economy's impact on divorce mixed economic hardships add to marital stress and increase divorce risk economic hardship can reduce occurrence of divorce too expensive live separately, lose health benefits, divorce itself may be expensive recession 2007-2009 divorce rates fell rose when economy began to recover b/c people postponed getting divorce economy affects quality of marriage more couples work nonstandard long hrs exp more stress/tension and spend less time together fatigue, child rearing, job instability increase likelihood divorce

Dependence on the Caregiver p. 415

elderly people live w/ children b/c too poor to live on own suffer from incontinence, serious illness, mental disabilities dependency often mutual

Discipline and Closeness p. 458

esp between stepfathers and adolescent stepchildren, children generally dislike being discipline by stepparents until form strong bonds stepfathers resent not being obeyed b/c consider themselves authority figures working hard to support family parents form strong relationships w/ children of new partners, feel betraying own biological children some stepparents act as quasi-kin role midway between that of parent and friend assume some functions of parents but let biological parents make final decisions about children taking quasi-kin role easier w/ nonresidential visiting children than w/ custodial children remarried partners have child hoping new addition cement stepfamily bonds can promote sense of family solidarity if shift all focus to baby, less involved w/ preadolescent children who also need their attention

Economic Conditions p. 409

especially likely to exacerbate child abuse social workers, child welfare agencies, medical staff say child abuse cases rose considerably in late 2008 when parents began to lose jobs and homes poverty best predictor of child abuse and neglect children from poor families 22% more likely than children from families w/ higher income to be abused or neglected poverty/child maltreatment co-occur when parents exp problems substance abuse, domestic violence

Alimony p. 441

estimated 420,000 Americans receive alimony either permanently or for specific time traditionally men paid spousal support b/c sole or higher earners, but changing 47% divorce lawyers say more women paying alimony b/c out earn former spouses 28 states and District of Columbia, marital fault is still relevant factor in awarding alimony b/c alimony laws vary across states and judges great deal of discretion dozen states, growing movement spearheaded by employed second wives, pushing to abolish lifetime alimony second wives maintain many ex-wives capable of supporting themselves, don't have children, , stay at home moms no longer have kids at home or first wives cohabiting w/ someone who supports them financially others argue cutting off alimony , particularly for women w/ little work experience, would thrust them in poverty

Ecological Systems Theory p. 419

explains domestic violence by analyzing the relationships between individuals and larger systems such as the economy, education, state agencies, and the community elder abuse highest when combination micro/macro variables: caregivers abuse drugs/limited resources and experience stress, older people develop physical or mental disabilities, caregivers and the elderly are physically and socially isolated from larger community, and there are few social services agencies that provide high quality care cultural values - including tv and movies that demean, debase, and devalue women and children promote and reinforce abusive behavior

Other Family Health Issues p. 419

family abuse is devastating, but other health-related issues can become crises lifestyle choices often result in sickness, death, depression and suicide

The Process of Divorce p. 431

few divorces spontaneous, spur of moment number of stages process six stages divorce Bohannon emotional, legal, economic, co-parental, community, psychic

Psychic Divorce p. 432

final stage, couple - which the partners separate from each other emotionally and establish separate lives may undergo process of mourning some never complete this stage, can't let go of pain, anger, resentment even after remarry

Legal Issues p. 457

financial matters more complicated in stepfamilies than in first marriages unless prenup allows new spouse to waive rights to share of estate, children from previous marriage may be disinherited even though wasn't parents intention adult children may feel devastated when aging dad has new wife changes will legal experts advise setting up trust fund to safeguard biological children or grandchildren inheritance minimize family friction, discuss estate plans w/ biological children/step

Some Characteristics of Remarried Couples p. 448

first marriage/remarriage differ age, gender, race-ethnicity, social class interrelated in understanding remarriage characteristics/rates

Legal Divorce p. 432

formal dissolution of marriage b/c divorce adversarial procedure during which each partner's attorney tries to maintain upper hand, process is rarely trouble free some issues - alimony spousal maintenance, monetary payments by one spouse to other after divorce child support - monetary payments by noncustodial parent to the custodial parent help pay for child-rearing expenses disagree fair and equitable, may use money to manipulate each other into making more concessons

The Phases of Separation p. 430

four phases preseparation early separation midseparation late separation

Gay and Lesbian Stepfamilies p. 453

g/l stepfam. similiar to opposite sex stepfam. usual difficulties often aggravated by lesbian and gay stepfamilies triple stigmatization 1- often denounced b/c many people view homosexuality immoral 2- gay/lesbian stepfamilies often seen deficient comp. w/ nuclear families b/c don't have adult role models of both sexes 3- b/c only handful states allow same-sex marriage, couples may not get custody of kids born during opposite-sex marriage gay steps resilient, diverse research almost nonexistent co-parent family - nonbiological mom support of and helper/consultant to biological mom, active parent of kids, dedicated and committed family member stepmother family parallels heterosexual stepmother families - lesbian stepmom performs most traditional mom tasks, but biological mom retain most decision power co-mother family - both moms have equal rights/responsibilities in everyday decisions and child-rearing tasks

Demographic Variables and Divorce p. 436

help explain why some couples prone to divorce

Parental Divorce p. 436

if parents of one or both partners in marriage were divorced when kids young, children themselves are more likely divorce after marry kids often less willing than those whose parents not divorced to tolerate unhappy marriages also have trouble making commitment necessary for marital success, b/c don't have role models who persevere despite problems

Explaining Family Abuse and Violence p. 418

influential perspective -

Age p. 399

intimate partner violence begins early in life rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by intimate partner first time females age 50 older lowest IVP rates homicide by current or former intimate partner leading cause of death for women during pregnancy or w/in one year of giving birth

Prevalence and Severity of Intimate Partner Violence p. 396

intimate partner violence pervasive in US society women more likely than men to experience serious physical injuries b/c smaller than partners and more likely to use fists rather than weapons.

Co-Parental Divorce p. 432

involves agreements about legal responsibility for financial support of children, day to day care, rights of custodial and noncustodial parents

Choices Why Are Some Fathers Deadbeat Dads? p. 443

irresponsible parent overextended parent parent in pain vengeful parent

Sexual Abuse p. 405

is any situation that involves a child in a sexual act that provides the perpetrator sexual gratification or financial benefit making child watch sexual acts, fondling child genitals, engaging a child in prostitution, committing statutory rape - sexual intercourse w/ minor, forcing child to participate in sexual acts for pornography and incest

Neglect p. 406

is failure to provide for a child's basic physical, emotional, medical, or educational needs not talking to, playing with, engaging in activities nourish child cognitive development being emotionally unresponsive, not seeking medical care, allowing child miss school w/o good excuse

Physical Abuse p. 405

is the use of force against a child that can or does cause bodily injury. includes acts that range from those that don't leave a physical mark on the child to those that cause disability, disfigurement, or death hitting, punching, beating, pushing, pulling, dragging, shaking, choking, scalding, severe physical punishments

Same-Sex Divorce p. 433

know little about same-sex, b/c US laws allowing same-sex marriage recent 2004, Massachusetts first state legalize same-sex marriage study 11 states form legal partnership for same-sex couples found just over 1% same-sex couples dissolved unions each yr compared w/ 2% opposite-sex married couples study same sex divorce Norway Sweden, have recognized same sex marriage some time, found patterns compared w/ older couples, those young when married more likely to divorce lesbians twice as likely divorce as gay men divorce rates same sex couples higher than those of opposite sex couples probably b/c in Norway/Sweden, same-sex couples get less support from community and less encouragement from family/friends than heterosexual couples to make marriage work many same-sex couples running into difficulties if want divorce in states don't recognize same sex marriages Massachusetts i.e. same sex divorce expensive than for heterosexual b/c must live there for a year attorneys spend more time unraveling issues legal commitments began, who owns what, etc.

Sexual Boundaries p. 457

laws forbid sexual relations between siblings and between parents and children in biological families rarely legal restrictions on sexual relations between stepfamily members either between stepchildren or between stepparent and stepchild result stepsiblings may drift in romantic relationships damage family relationships estimates of extent of child abuse in stepfamilies vary children greater risk both physical/sexual abuse if live in household w/ adult not biological parent sexual abuse occurs, perp usually male, often stepfather

Social Class p. 450

least-educated men and most-educated women least likely to remarry Low-SES women can improve financial sit. if marry man employed low-SES men gain no economic benefit from remarriage b/c eligible partners usually unemployed college-educated women may have few incentives to remarry b/c often economically independent marriage market men worth more than women of same age b/c usually financially better off divorced women often severe financial problems many women surest way to avoid/escape poverty remarry young, less educated, low income divorcees more likely remarry than divorced women who older, highly educated, financially independent

Same-Sex Couples p. 416

less likely than opposite sex to spank or physically punish kids lesbian women the butch, encounter more physical abuse, neglect than those describe selves as femme lesbian women exp more IPV than gay men high for bisexual and heterosexual women than for bisexual and heterosexual men 30% lesbians, 50% bisexual women, 24% heterosexual women exp one form severe physical violence by intimate partner 16% gay men 14% heterosexual men exp physical violence by intimate partner homophobia can increase abusive behavior if partners uses it as psychological weapon by threatening to expose relationship to parent/employers study found same sex intimate partner violence due to stressors internalized homophobia or having negative feelings about being lesbian or gay b/c societys rejection of homosexuality and heterosexist discrimination, or being treated unfairly b/c one's homosexual orientation study concluded both internalized homophobia and heterosexist discrimination increase likelihood of lifetime IPV b/c lesbians, gay men harbor beliefs they deserve abuse explain why same sex IPV rate high, but not why lesbians higher than gay men maybe men underreport IPV may be due to varibles age, race, ethnicity, social class, and age of lesbian and gay men exp abuse in childhood

Feminist Theories p. 418

male aggression against women and children is common in patriarchal societies which men have power, status, privilege females marginalized expected to accept male domination women independence result some men using violence reestablish their power in relationship women are violent- feminist scholars - but believe than women resort to aggression to resist men control/domination perspectives maintain women's physical violence less likely result in injuries than men physical violence when couple violence is mutual women more likely than men comply w/ partner commands

Combination of Factors p. 410

maltreatment involves polyvictimization and other variables study interviewed 40 moms jailed for killing children, women cited many interrelated problems accumulated over yrs most common reasons growing up in neglectful or violent home, not having moms good role models, exp abuse from partner, poverty, early pregnancy, substance abuse risk factors for well intentioned parents abuse child: young parents aren't prepared for responsibilities of raising child, overwhelmed single parents, families stressed by poverty, divorce, child disability, or unemployment, substance abuse, mental health problems, living in dangerous neighborhood

Partner Violence p. 410

maltreatment more common in house w/woman is abused greater violence toward partner, greater probability child abuse, esp by male women exp partner violence depressed, parenting becomes hostile, punitive mom likely adopt male partner violent behavior to control own children guilt/shame prevent abusive mom from seeking help from family,friends, social service agencies women victimization, fear of partner, exhaustion lead to child abuse

Violence among Same-Sex Couples and Racial-Ethnic Groups p. 416

many families experience conflict neither sexual orientation nor national origin deter abuse, violence, and neglect

Divorce: Process and Rates p. 431

many marriages end in divorce after 8 yrs

Remarriage: Rates, Process, and Characteristics p. 447

many people start dating again before divorce final courtship brief b/c half women/men remarry after divorce from first marriage do so w/in 4 yrs other cases, cohabitation replaces dating, both short run and long term half remarriages begin w/ cohabitation living together more common after divorce than before first marriage cohabitation hasten matrimony b/c most adults court only brief periods before plunging into remarriage living together delay remarriage if cohabitants move from one relationship to another over number of yrs, may take long time select marriage partner if one or both people reluctant to marry, cohabitation may lead to long-term relationship includes children from past marriage and those born to cohabiting couple

What Helps Children before, during, and after divorce? p. 446

many researchers and family clinicians, parents can lessen some of divorce's negative effects many ways: reassure children both parents will continue to love care for them should talk about own feelings to encourage open communication between parents and children should emphasize children aren't responsible for problems between parents, pointing out each adult is divorcing other partner not children should maintain ongoing relationship w/ children be consistent in setting following household rules, never complain about financial problems, particularly child support should encourage children talk about feelings and experiences freely and openly with significant people in lives such as grandparents, etc. research shown difficulties that children and adults who go through divorce experience can be reduced if coparents civil and cooperative and work together to improve child well being

Wealth p. 440

marriage generally builds wealth, divorce depletes it avg among people 41-49, couple wealth increases 16% for each yr marriage divorced couples lose 77% of shared wealth w/in 5 yrs of divorce married couples accumulate more wealth than single people for many reasons maintain one household save more money invest more of income may work harder, seek promotions to pay for child education divorce reverses all these benefits ex spouses - 2 mortgages or rent, 2 sets household expenses, rarely pool assets to pay for child education

Divorce Rates p. 432

marriages in US lasting longer

How Stepfamilies and Nuclear Families Differ p. 453

may look like nuclear families b/c composed adults/children more difficult for reasons range structure of stepfamilies to ambiguous roles of stepfamily members 1- structure of stepfamilies is complex - create new roles 2- stepfamily must cope w/ unique tasks - stepparent may struggle overcome rejection b/c children may griving parents divorce, or disagree w/ biological parent discipline/house hold rules most common tasks redefining and renegotiating family boundaries 3-stepfamilies often experience more stress and conflict - major source tension adjustment of family members make all at once rather than gradually like nuclear family 4- Stepfamily integration typically takes years rather than months - Stepfamily Cycle as long as 8 yrs for couple to consolidate family and work as a team if remarried couple has baby , other unexpected problems unemployment or death in family 5-Important relationships may be cut off or end abruptly, and others spring up overnight - many noncustodial fathers have no contact w/ children after divorce siblings may also not see each other 6- There are continuous transitions and adjustments rather than stability 7- Stepfamilies are less cohesive than nuclear or single-parent households 8-Stepfamilies have less flexibility in their everyday behavior 9- Stepfamily members often have unrealistic expectations 10- There's no shared family history. 11-There may be loyalty conflicts 12- Stepfamily roles are often ambiguous

Financial Stress p. 415

medical costs for elderly relative trigger abuse middle class unlike low income aren't eligible for admission to public facilities few can pay for in home nursing or high quality nursing homes that upper class afford

Depression p. 423

mental disorder characterized by persistent sadness and loss of interest in everyday activities interferes w/ ability to work, study, sleep, eat, enjoy experiences formerly pleasurable US workers who been diagnosed w/ depression miss est. 68 million days work each year absenteeism costs employers $23 billion annually lost productivity 14% adolescents 15% adults exp one major depressive episode (two weeks) but fewer than half ever seek treatment single most common type of mental disorder reported by adolescents, usually begins by age 14 symptoms more common in girls 36% than boys 22% some of reasons similar, hormonal changes, substance abuse, bullying (victim or perp) sexual or physical abuse, parental divorce, family history mental disorders adulthood, all age groups women more likely than men to feel depressed, prevalence depression highest among age 45-64 yrs reasons: people face major life stresses divorce, losing job, death of loved one, menopausal women going through hormonal changes, part of sandwich generation raising children, helping adult children, caring aging parents, feeling sad about not having achieved youthful dreams case of adolescents, many medical researchers believe adults who have genetic predisposition or family history depression more likely depressed not clear why rates higher for women , highest for both sexes at midlife

Why Do They Do It? p. 415

micro/macro factors

Phase One: The Tension-Building Phase p. 401

minor battering incidents occur, woman tries to reduce her partner's anger by catering to him or staying out of his way

Low Social Support p. 415

more likely when family no strong social network kin ,friends, neighbors no occasional relief from care exp strain = violence

Perpetrators and Fatalities p. 406

more than 81% of victims maltreated by one or both parents 37% cases, abusers mom 7% are relatives or intimate partner of parent, boyfriend homicide leading cause of death among infants 1570 kids died of abuse 2011, 43% younger than 1 yr, 82 % younger than 4 5 die every day 78% child deaths caused by one/both parents, 61% homicide just mom, mother, father, boyfriend first two months infant life most deadly young mom know little about parenting and unable to cope w/ constant crying of normal infant researchers maintain official child homicide stats too low Colorado/NC studies est. 50-60% child death result from abuse or neglect are recorded as accidents factors for underreporting: inadequate training of people who investigate deaths, incorrect info on death certificates, parent's ability to conceal child death due to maltreatment, infant inadequate skeletal exams

Negative Self-Concept and Low Self-Esteem p. 402

most batterers convince their partners that they're worthless, stupid, disgusting rarely kind word tyranny is effective b/c in many cultures, including ours, many women's self-worth still hinges on having a man sometimes women willing to pay any price to hold on to the relationship b/c they believe that no one else could love them

Physical Well-Being p. 439

negative association between divorce and health 2011, 70% divorced Americans compared w/ 78% those married reported health problems obesity, sickness or colds, flu, headaches 60% of divorced, comp. w/ 66% those married, smoked, no exercise, didn't eat healthy food study examined data 1972-2003 found self-rated health of divorced people worsened over 31 yrs comp. w/ married people more so for women than men getting married increases one risk for eventual marital dissolution, marital dissolution seems to be worse for self-rated health now than at any point in the past 3 decades those older 50, divorced men/women suffer a greater decline in physical health than married people those who spent more yrs divorced reported 20% more chronic health problems such hear disease, diabetes, cancer, mobility problems such as difficulty climbing stairs getting and being divorced may damage health don't conclude divorce causes health problems poor health,esp poor mental health decrease marital satisfaction, increasing likelihood of separation or divorce worse health after divorce may be due to process of divorce creates or magnifies emotional or psychological problems

Types of Stepfamilies p. 451

new family networks emerge w/ stepfamily traced through genogram = diagram of biological relationships among family members 3 basic types of stepfamilies mother-stepfather family - all children biological of mom and step of dad father-stepmother family - biological of father, step of mom joint stepfamily - at least one kid biological child both parents, at least one child biological of one parent, stepchild of other parents stepfamilies even more complicated complex stepfamily both adults have kid from previous marriage joint step-adoptive family and joint biological-step-adoptive families - at least one child biological child of one parent, stepchild of other parents, one or both parents have adopted at least one child term complex stepfamily doesn't take account relationships between cohabitants one or both may have been married and have children from previous unions stepfamilies simple composed onen biological parent, his or her children and stepparent stepsiblings - brother or sisters who share biological or adoptive parent and stepparent other half siblings- brother or sister who share only one biological or adoptive parent other step relatives

Ongoing Parental Conflict and Hostility p. 444

often not divorce itself but parental attitudes during and after divorce affect child behavior end of highly conflicted marriage typically improves children well-being freed from anxiety,stress,depression, their mental health improves and their antisocial behavior decreases children w/ parents in high conflict marriage fare worse as adults than those from families high-conflict marriage ends in divorce depends on quality of low conflict marriage parents who stay in unhappy marriages for kids may be distant depressed or abuse alcohol 40% young adults who grew up in intact homes believed their families might have been better off if parents broken up

Race and Ethnicity p. 437

one of most consistent research finding is that, terms of pop size and marriage rates, blacks more likely to divorce than are people in any other racial-ethic group Asian women lowest divorce rates differences persist at all income, age, educational, occupational levels race ethnicity don't cause divorce divorce more prevalent among African Americans b/c combination macro, demographic, micro factors include : higher rates teen premarital pregnancy, young age at marriage, presence of children from previous relationships, serial cohabitation, poverty, financial strain and male unemployment Low Asian American divorce rates reflect combination of variables recent immigrants likely endorse traditional values that encourage staying married, even if domestic violence nonmarital birthrates for Asian American women low - factor decreases risk of divorce

Community Divorce p. 432

partners go through community divorce, during inform friends, family, teachers, others no long married

Late Separation p. 431

partners must learn how to be singles again, now doing all housework and home maintenance friends may avoid both partners others take sides develop new friendships must help kids deal w/ anxiety, anger, confusion, and sadness

Micro-Level Reasons for Divorce p. 438

people grow apart many reasons most common micro level reasons: -unrealistic expectations about marriages -premarital doubts 19% women, 14% men -financial problems and disagreements -42% women, 9% men verbal, physical, emotional abuse -extramarital affairs -communication problems -substance abuse -how to raise and discipline children disagreements increase marital dissatisfaction divorce rate among age 50 risen from fewer than 10% all divorces in 1990 to more than 25% 2009 people may decide to leave long term unhappy marriage, want have more satisfying life b/c realize disability, death approaching as people change, so do priorities i.e. decide pursue college, husband determined devote time to religious congregation

Why Do Adults Abuse Children? p. 409

people tend to stereotype child abusers as mentally ill, but fewer than 10% are reasons for child maltreatment are substance abuse, stress, poverty, partner violence, divorce

Divorce p. 410

period just before/after divorce increase likelihood maltreatment b/c parental conflict and family tensions high

Personality p. 415

personality characteristics of older people increase risk of abuse verbal aggression/hostility spark physical and verbal maltreatment by caretaking spouse, partner, adult child

How Divorce Affects Adults p. 439

physical, emotional, psychological, economic well-being child custody, child support

Midseparation p. 431

pressures of maintaining two households and meeting children's emotional and physical needs mount, and stress intensifies may pseudo-reconciliation and move back in together rarely lasts

Prevention p. 426

preventing domestic violence begins at home talk early not beat girls family violence best predictors of IPV from childhood to adult adult solving conflict w/o aggressive teach kids being perpetrator, femlae or male unacceptable

Emotional and Psychological Well-Being p. 439

psychic divorce continue many yrs when both partners know marriage can't be salvaged, may be ambivalent about getting divorce fluctuate between sense of loss, feeling of freedom periods of depression w/ spurts of happiness more married people 81% than those divorced 73% report good emotional health divorce brings in initial decline in social support networks b.c people lose contact w/ in-laws, married friends, neighbors when one or both partners change residences stressors include father lower contact w/kids, mother child care problems, lower family income degree of emotional and psychological distress varies people leave unhappy marriage characterized by long period of conflict, hostility and violence they exp. much less depression and stress than those who were simply dissatisfied psychological well being problems greatest for parents w/ young children divorce fewer negative psychological consequences for adults w/o young children adult children divorce affect parents well being if mothers support institution of marriage, may experience depressive feelings, sadness, and tension parents traditional views feel shame, failure for not having raised children in right way feelings decrease parental happiness when children divorce

Prevalence and Characteristics of Child Maltreatment p. 406

rates in US decreased since 2007 - many cases undetected. local and state child protective services - 9% children maltreated in 2010 53% adults surveyed said suffered physical, emotional, or sexual abuse during childhood

Why Do People Divorce? p. 434

rates vary in US due to three interrelated reasons: macro or societal demographic micro or interpersonal Fig. 15.2 lead to interpersonal problems end marriage

Polyvictimization p. 409

refers to experiencing multiple kinds of victimization such as physical abuse, sexual abuse, and IPV among adults victimization can be direct (parental emotional abuse) or indirect (witnessing family violence) 49% children 17 and younger experienced 2 or more types of victimization, both direct and indirect, 8% experienced 7 or more types study US adults 5 states found 60% suffered at least one adversity during childhood such as verbal, sexual or physical abuse, parental absence due to divorce, witnessing domestic violence, living w/ alcoholic or someone who abused street or prescription drugs 9% reported 3 adverse experiences , 7% reported 4 such experiences, 9% reported 5 or more among those 5 or more, highest percentages were respondents who didn't have high school diploma and victimizations occurred in all racial-ethnic groups

Gender Roles p. 458

relationships w/ stepchildren often more difficult for stepmothers than stepfathers if stepmother home more than husband, she expected more actively involved in domestic duties, raising stepchildren noncustodial moms, stepmoms, play more important role than noncustodial fathers and stepfathers in shaping family dynamics women usually kinkeepers who arrange visits between family members , remember birthdays, holiday greetings, gifts, also influential gatekeepers when encourage relationships between noncustodial parents and biological children or cut off contact

Remarriage as a Process p. 448

remarriage process may involve series of steps similar to six stations of divorce stages of remarriage not sequential, not every couple goes through all of them or with same intensity if partners can deal successfully w/ each stage, more likely to emerge w/ new identity as couple emotional remarriage stage often slow process physical attraction - divorced person has to establish commitment to and trust in new partner remarriages also emotionally intricate b/c roles aren't clear spouses' responsibilities w/ new in-laws? psychic remarriage stage - people's identity changes from single individual to couple many men- shift in marital status doesn't require extreme change in personal identity traditional woman, remarriage represents recovery of valued identity as wife nontraditional women, worry loss of her highly valued independence community remarriage stage people often sever close personal ties est. after divorce lose valuable friendships remarried couples may move to another community, requires meeting new neighbors, different place worship, changing children's schools parental remarriage stage involves developing relationships between partner and children of new spouse economic remarriage stage couple reestablishes marital household as economic unit may be friction about distribution of resources case of parents remarry when children young, who's responsible for child expenses? legal system doesn't specify remarriage responsibilities, people must deal w/ new issues during legal remarriage stage

Using Several Theories p. 419

researchers rely on only one theory b/c reasons for human behavior, including IPV and domestic violence are complex resource theory - suggests that men who have few assets are more likely to be violent toward their partners than are men w. high incomes exchange theory - posits people stay in abusive relationships b/c benefits outweigh the costs feminist theories - contend that women's lower status in society encourages male aggression also consider personality variables and social exchange factors, explaining family violence becomes even more complex

Distributing Emotional Resources p. 457

resources such as time, space, affection must also be distributed equitably so all family members content w/ new living arrangements mothers angry about spending much of their time energy on live-in stepchildren but receiving few rewards custodial mothers can strengthen ties between their children and stepfathers by encouraging them to spend time together

Adolescent Abuse p. 413

risks of family violence and child homicide decrease as child grow older, many parents/partners abuse teens

Do You Know Someone with Divorce Hangover? p. 440

sarcasm using the children lashing out paralysis holding on throwing out everything blaming and finding fault excessive guilt dependency

Overweight and Obesity p. 421-422

second top cause of disability and death most commonly used measure of weight status is body mass index, or BMI, which uses simple calculation based on ratio of person's height and weight adults BMI between 25 and 29 considered overweight, between 30 and 39 obese, extreme obesity 40 higher Since 1970s percentage of Americans overweight and obese increased 1971 , 15% US adults age 20 over obese, 1% extremely obese 2010, 36% obese, 6% extremely obese 1990 not single state had obesity rate above 15% 2012, all states had obesity rates above 20% 12 states had obesity rates equal to or greater than 30% Since 1988 prevalence of obesity has increased among adults at all income and education levels at current rate, some medical researchers predict 42% American adults be obese in 2030 25% of that group will be severely obese being overweight/obese increases person risk for heart disease, high blood pressure, strokes, diabetes, osteoporosis, several types cancer more than half American admit overeating unhealthful eating 91% say have access to affordable fruits/vegetables 86% full time employees overweight have at least one chronic disease, high absenteeism rates, resulting $153 billion in lost productivity yr obesity due to binge eating, consuming unusually large amount of food and feeling that the eating is out of control **BINGE EATING** is the most common eating disorder in US and affects about 4% of women and 2% of men most binge eaters are between ages 46 and 55 they report more health problems, stress, muscle, joint pain, headaches, menstrual problems, trouble sleeping, suicidal thoughts than do people who aren't binge eaters may trigger many of these problems genes may be involved, b/c it often occurs w/in families but researchers don't know for sure ** ANOREXIA NERVOSA** dangerous eating disorder -fear of obesity conviction that one is fat, significant weight loss and refusal to maintain weight w/in normal age and height limits **BULIMIA** cyclical pattern of eating binges followed by self-induced vomiting, fasting, excessive exercise, or using laxatives study results vary, some point in lives, est. 4% American women experience anorexia 7% afflicted w/ bulimia 90% anorexics and bulimics females, can affect people of all ages, 86% report onset of anorexia or bulimia before age 20 anorexia may cause slowing heartbeat ,loss of normal blood pressure, cardiac arrest, dehydration, skin abnormalities, hypothermia,lethargy, potassium deficiency, and kidney malfunction w/ treatment, half of anorexics get better, 40% remain chronically ill, 10% die of causes related to disease Bulimia binge-purge cycle cause fatigue, seizures, muscle cramps, irregular heartbeat,decreased bone density, lead to osteoporosis repeated vomiting damage esophagus, stomach, cause salivary glands to swell, gums recede, erode tooth enamel half risk developing anorexia might be due to combination genetic predisposition and brain chemistry b/c eating disorders typically co-occur w/ other problems such as depression, sexual abuse, relationship between genes and eating disorders still indefinite

Table 14.6 Some Symptoms of Depression p. 424

see

Table 14.7 Some Common Warning Signs of Suicide p. 425

see

Table 14.1 Risk Factors Associated with Intimate Partner Violence p. 398

see table

Table 14.2 Percentage of Americans Age 18 and Older Who Have Ever Experienced Intimate Partner Violence p. 398

see table

Separation: Process and Outcome p. 430

separation may mean temporary time out partners deliberate about continuing marriage, or permanent arrangement if religious beliefs don't allow divorce legal separation - temporary period living apart most states require before granting divorce

Separation and Divorce p. 431

separations end in divorce, legal and formal dissolution of a marriage avg time between separation and divorce 22 months

Sexual Abuse p. 412

sexual abuse by sibling rarely isolated incident accompanied by physical and emotional abuse may escalate often threaten victims w/ violence kid say nothing to parents - afraid of reprisal or think parent won't believe them most cases sibling incest, older brothers molest younger sisters girls perceive selves as less powerful

Sexual Abuse and Incest p. 407

sexual abuse by strangers media publicity, 90% offenses perpetrated by family, friends of family, others children know 3% of infants/toddlers sexually abused, rises until child is age 14 95% offenders are men 10% family members, 64% family friend, child friend, or caretaker 2009, 3 sisters of 5 Browns alerted authorities that father - strict Mormon sexually abused them 1990-1998 man who sexually abuses child or children usually starts doing so when child is between 8-12 yrs - or when child in diapers, may select only one child - usually oldest common for several daughters to be victimized - sequentially or simultaneously over yrs convince daughters attacks are expressions of affection others intimidate victim w/ promises of physical retaliation against the victim/other family members threaten be arrested or family break up children remain silent out of fear/guilt b/c believe responsible for abuse abusers personality traits vary, share some common characteristics highly entitled, self-centered, manipulative men who use children to meet own emotional needs. often controlling and view daughters/sons as owned objects incestuous relationships in childhood often lead to mistrust, fear of intimacy, sexual dysfunctions in adulthood Table 14.3 some of the physical/behavioral signs that child is being abused and needs protection

Living Arrangements p. 415

shared living situation major risk factor increases opportunities for contact, tensions not decreased conflicts in everyday situations

Table 14.3 Signs of Child Abuse p. 408

signs of child abuse physical abuse physical neglect sexual abuse emotional abuse

Types of Intimate Partner p. 395

single episode to ongoing abuse Physical Abuse is threatening, trying to hurt, or hurting a partner by using physical force. sexual abuse is threatening or forcing a partner to take part in a sex act when she or he doesn't consent. Emotional abuse is aggressive behavior that threatens, monitors, or controls a partner Often, intimate partner violence starts w/ emotional abuse that can escalate to physical or sexual violence

Women Who Abuse Men p. 404

sociologist Michael Johnson two types IPV intimate terrorism - primary perpetrator is male who uses multiple forms of abuse and escalates control to dominate his partner situational couple violence, both partners are perpetrators not seeking control, but violence is result of conflict turns into disagreements that escalate to arguments, to verbal abuse, physical violence sociologist Murray Straus argues women also engage in intimate terrorism b/c much partner violence mutual 200 studies show women as likely as men perpetrate nonsexual physical assaults he maintains victimization surveys Table 14.2 - p. 398 vastly underestimate violence by female partners b/c assaults by male partner much more likely to result in injury, women more likely than men report attack to police/researchers challenge contention women engage in partner violence to defend themselves b/c dozen studies found women initiate 30-73% of violent incidents male victims less likely to call police b/c injury isn't severe, fear arrest, embarrassed to report assault IPV one-sided or mutual, often spills over into violence against children 70% court cases involve a co-occurrence of IPV and child abuse

Some Outcomes of Marital Separation p. 431

some reconcile try to give marriage second chance

Separation Without Divorce p. 431

some separate and do the paperwork but never make divorce official California, 80% divorcing people handled own divorces avoid high lawyer fees third didn't finalize divorce b/c didn't realize after filing papers in court, must receive decision from judge separated but not legally divorced

Belief That the Abuser Will Change p. 402

some women stay in violent relationships b/c they're seduced by the Cinderella fantasy - woman believes that sooner or later, the abuser will change and she and Prince Charming will live happily ever after. Many stay in abusive relationship b/c hope to "rehabilitate" the man rather than break up the family

Marital Rape p. 400

spousal rape or wife rape is an abusive act in which a man forces his wife to have unwanted sexual intercourse crime in all states since 1993 most common type of rape in US

Stepchild-Stepparent Relationship Development p. 458

stepchildren less likely experience conflict if stepparent raised them from infancy or early childhood if children liked stepparent from beginning mutual interests and spending time together on activities children like or stepparent usually stepfather brought material goods family couldn't afford previously children living w/ custodial mother have better relationship w/ stepfather if he marries rather than lives w/ mom

The Diversity and Complexity of Stepfamilies p. 451

stepfamilies differ from nuclear families

How Stepfamilies Affect Children p. 459

stepfamilies harmful or beneficial to children? vary according to family social class and degree of parental conflict

What Is a Stepfamily? p. 451

stepfamly is household in which two adults who are biological or adoptive parents with child from previous relationship marry or cohabit case of defining family, not everyone agree w/ definition b/c includes cohabitants definition more inclusive encompasses nontraditional stepfamilies b/c concepts of and research about stepfamilies reflect exp. white, middle class, heterosexual couples reconstituted family/binuclear family interchangeably w/ stepfamily by social scientists but terms rarely used by sociologists blended family w/ stepfamily disagree

Shame or Guilt p. 403

strong cultural factors may also keep woman from leaving abuser Asian American communities, esp, strong pressure not to bring shame or disgrace on family by exposing problems - domestic violence immigrant women hesitant to report intimate partner violence b/c fear deportation fears unfounded b/c nonimmigrant visa allow IPV victims remain in US legally

Religion p. 438

strong religious beliefs and behavior can either strengthen or weaken marriage compared w/ less religious counterparts, risk of divorce much lower among couples religiously homogamous to same faith or denomination, attend same religious services regularly, have similar gender ideologies about women,men roles at home likelihood of divorce high if partners belong to different faiths, spousal differences fuel arguments about traditional versus egalitarian gender roles at home, time or money devoted to congregation, pressuring partner convert or attend services

Technology p. 435

tech made divorce more accessible many now go online to file for divorce save money and time and avoid emotional clashes in lawyers offices online do it yourself divorces cost $50 online dating that leads to marriage may be especially likely to end in divorce online daters likely act impulsively b/c want to marry don't know each other well, rush into marriage, discover little in common or lied about background

Some Consequences of Adolescent Abuse p. 414

teens strike back physically verbally run away withdraw use alcohol,drugs juvenile prostitution pornography commit suicide nonvictims - abused adolescents twice likely victims other violent crimes, domestic violence offenders, substance abusers as adults almost 3 times more likely commit property and vioent crimes 17% nonvictim boys, 48% boys sexually assaulted engage in delinquent acts 20% sex assaulted girls b/come delinquent comp. w/ 5% nonvictims

Types of Custody p. 441

three types of custody sole,split, joint sole custody - one parent is responsible for raising the child other parent has specified visitation rights - parents may negotiate informally over issues such as schedules or holidays if disagree, legal custodian has right to make final decisions split custody - children divided between parents either by sex mom gets daughter, dad gets sons, or by choice - children allowed to choose parent to live with joint custody - sometimes called dual residence custody, children divide time between their parents, who share decisions about the children upbringing two types joint custody joint legal custody = both parents share decision making on issues such as child education, health care, religious training joint physical custody court specifies how much time children will spend in each parent home joint legal and physical custody is rare, many noncustodial fathers pushing co parenting, divorced parents sharing legal and physical custody more equally co parenting isn't legal type of custody more states requiring parents to file coparenting plan as part of divorce process

Combating Domestic Violence and Other Family Health Problems p. 426

two most effective strategies prevention and intervention

Depression and Suicide pp. 423

two serious problems affect families depression and suicide negative consequences affect kin and friends throughout life course

Substance Abuse p. 422

use of some drugs legal or illegal result in substance abuse, overindulgence in and dependence on drug or other chemical that harms an individual's physical and mental health excessive alcohol use is the third leading lifestyle-related cause of death in nation approx. 80,000 Americans die each yr b/c excessive drinking more than 1.6 million hospitalized, more than 4 million visit ER for alcohol-related problems excessive alcohol use includes binge drinking having 5 or more drinks on the same occasion at elast 1 day in past 30 days, heavy drinking, having 5 or more drinks on same occasion 5 or more days in past 30 days 1993-2011, prevalence binge drinking increased 14-17% and prevalence heavy drinking 3-6% 2011, 71% h.s. students drunk alcohol ages 12-20 drink 11% all alcohol consumed in US group consumes more than 90% alcohol by binge drinking, each yr 38% young people under age 21 involved in fatal car crashes drunk excessive alcohol use results myriad immediate and long term health risks unintentional injuries, violence, risky sexual behaviors, miscarriage and still birth, physical and mental birth defects, alcohol poisoning, unemployment, psychiatric problems, heart disease , several types of cancer, and liver disease teens/young adults under 25, alcohol consumption irreversibly damage part of brain involves memory, learning and social interaction Illicit drugs include marijuana/hashish, cocaine, crack, heroin, hallucinogens, LSD, PCP, inhalants, any prescription type psychotherapeutic drug used nonmedically est. 9% Americans 23 million people age 12 older, use illegal drugs illicit drug use more common among men, 11% than women 7% most among 18-25 yrs - 21%, unemployed 17%, least common among Asian Americans 4% increasing number of women who dying of overdoses Marijuana most commonly used illicit drug 2007-2011 its use increase 16 million to more than 18 million users 7% US population 2011, 23% h.s. students using marijuana up from 15% in 1991 2012 Colorado, Washington legalized marijuana District of Columbia and 15 states legalized marijuana for medical reasons or plan to enact such laws in future 2% marijuana users addicted but most smoke during periods high stress, particularly unemployment study of juvenile offenders in treatment programs found those who abstained from all drugs, including alcohol and marijuana, for 12 months or longer were more likely to have jobs, better wages, lower arrest rates than their counterparts who abstained for 6 or fewer months powerful prescription pain relievers such as Oxycontin and Vicodin harder to get than in past 2010 Us authorities and some states started cracking down on pain management centers where some doctors prescribed powerful narcotics and multiple refills without performing physical exams or requiring evidence of injury prescription drug abuse increased partly b/c growth illegitimate Internet pharmacies 2008 - 2 of 365 websites sold narcotic pain killers were certified remaining 363 sites, 85% didn't require prescription, 15% required only that a prescription be faxed = forged Rx use same prescription multiple times no website controls to block sale of drugs outside Internet, tighter restrictions on pain prescriptions resulted in surge heroin use prescription pain pills narcotics sell up to $80/pill $9 dose of heroin heroin so easy to get many parts of country dealers deliver to suburbs and run specials attract young, professional, upper income customers illicit drugs same health risks as excessive alcohol use but also have immediate life threatening consequences including death higher rates mental illness, suicidal thought and behavior, major depressive episodes, impair person's ability to function at school,home or work

Stepparent-Stepchild Relationships p. 458

vary considerably b/c stepfamilies are more diverse than biological families four issues gender roles, stepchild-stepparent relationship development, discipline and closeness, intergenerational relationships

Some Warning Signs of Intimate Partner Abuse p. 404

verbal abuse sexual abuse disrespect isolation emotional neglect jealousy unrealistic expectations blaming others for problems rigid gender roles extreme mood swings cruelty to animals and children threats of violence destruction of property self-destructive behavior

Hidden Victims: Siblings and Adolescents p. 411

violence between siblings, adolescent abuse less visible, b/c authorities rarely notified such abuse harmful

Social Learning Theory p. 418

we learn by observing the behavior of others some people try to avoid behavior experienced in past continuous exposure to abuse/violence during childhood increases likelihood person be both assailant and victim in adulthood both physical and emotional abuse between adults in house, children tend to model behaviors and engage in sibling abuse instead of learning conflict resolution skills study 1300 married couples avg 20 yrs spouses not become more similar on personality traits affectionate,sociable or ambitious aggression only personality trait changed when one spouse aggressive other more aggressive over time

Prevalence of Adolescent Abuse p. 413

when adolescents fail to live up to parent expectations, parents sometimes use physical force to assert control child victims - 23% age 12-17 56% exp neglect, 18% abused physically, 16% sexually assaulted by family member or adult relative

How Abuse Affects Children p. 410

whether abuse is physical, emotional, sexual, child suffer from variety physiological, social, emotional problems, including headaches, bed-wetting, chronic constipation, difficulty communicating, learning disabilities, poor performance in school, and variety mental disorders children from violent families often more aggressive than children from nonviolent families being abused or neglected as child increased likelihood of arrest as juvenile by 59%, adult 28%, violent crime 30%, adolescents who experience maltreatment more likely than nonabused counterparts to engage in early sex, unintended pregnancies, emotional and eating disorders, abuse alcohol and other drugs, engage in delinquent behavior adulthood, abused children twice likely to be unemployed and in welfare programs also more likely violent w/ partner, witnessing domestic violence triples likelihood of child having conduct disorders - aggression, disobedience, delinquency many aren't just passive observers of domestic abuse, national study, half yelled at parents to stop violence and 24% called police exp abuse and neglect linked w/ serious life long problems 5 times more likely exp depression 12 times more likely attempt suicide 12 times more likely alcohol/drug sexually abused 21 times more likely become substance abusers 2/3 people in drug treatment report abuse as kid negatively impact partner relationships victims have poor social skills create difficulties in relating to partner and likely to get involved w/ people who mistreat them

Gender and Race-Ethnicity p. 449

white Americans highest remarriage rates, Asian Americans lowest, including married 3 or more times within racial-ethnic groups, women/men fairly similar remarriage rates several interwoven reasons for variation in remarriage rates across racial-ethnic groups 1-African Americans lowest marriage rates, remarriage less likely 2- blacks highest cohabitation rates. highest cohabitation rates most likely to delay marriage or not marry at all 3-Latinos and Asian Americans esp. recent immigrants, encourage marriage and discourage cohabitation and divorce cultural values decrease likelihood of remarrying

Need for Child Support p. 403

women believe even abusive partner better than none none = poverty

Racial-Ethnic Groups p. 417

women higher victimization rates than men across all racial,ethnic groups women are also offenders varies by socioeconomic status, national origin, external stressors Latinos greater likelihood of mutual IPV when cohabitors and married couples live in high crime neighborhoods and if one or both partners abuse alcohol variations among Asian American couples reflect gender roles,employment status men more abusive if wives violate traditional gender roles,challenge husband decision making house chores, child rearing, finance wives earn as much or more want more house decision making power, some husbands esp older, may be abusive to reassert control and authority study found mutual IPV among interracial and black couples than white couples higher among cohabitants than married couples researchers attribute high IPV rates among interracial couples to stressors such as cultural and communication differences, negative attitudes toward relationships by outsiders, friends, family members black couples may not face same obstacles as interracial couples but more likely than white couples to encounter racial discrimination, unemployment, few advancement opportunities - all increase stress and likelihood of violence

Gender p. 437

women twice likely as men to imitate divorce primarily b/c of husband not being responsive to relationship problems all age groups, women in unhappy marriages more likely get divorce if can support themselves holding joint assets savings and stock decreases many unhappy wives likelihood of seeking divorce b/c expect have lower standard of living after divorce exchange theory - joint assets can actually restrict the choices of women vis a vis divorce

Premarital Childbearing p. 436

women who conceive or give birth to child before marriage high divorce rates than women who conceive or have a child after marriage divorce esp. likely among adolescent parents lack education or income to maintain stable family life

Smoking p. 420

world and US tobacco use, cigarettes, leading cause of preventable disease, disability and death US tobacco use is responsible for 1 in 5 deaths annually on avg smokers die 13-14 yrs earlier than nonsmokers smoking cause cancer, heart disease, stroke and lung disease - emphysema and bronchitis costs more than $193 billion each year in lost productivity and health care expenditures smoking by adolescents and adults decreased but still high each day more than 3800 teens smoke first cig more than 1000 become become daily cigarette smokers vast majority Americans who smoke every day during adolescence become dependent on nicotine by young adulthood nearly all adults who smoke every day started smoking when 26 or younger h.s. students, prevalence of having ever smoked cigarettes sl higher males 46%, females 43% higher white and Hispanic, than black 44%, 49%, 39% nationwide, more 6% h.s. smoke more pack day 8% white, 4% Latino, 3% black white male most likely engage high risk behavior adults, decreased since 1965 between 2000-2010 cig smoke age 25-64 dropped 26% to 22% esp those w/ college degree same decade, no change in smoke prevalence among adults 65 older prevention difficult b/c tobacco industry spends $10 billion yr to market products half of movies for kids under 13 contain tobacco scenes, half of states continue to allow smoking in public places, images and messages normalize tobacco use in mags on Internet, retail store by youth 2011 states collected more $25 billion from tobacco taxes legal settlements, spent only 2% of money on tobacco prevention programs

Age At Marriage p. 436

younger partners are when marry, more likely to divorce early marriage- esp before age 18, one of strongest predictors of divorce 10 yrs marriage, 48% first marriages women younger 18 dissolved, 24% first marriages women at least 25 who delay marriage until 20s, usually more mature than teens and better able to handle challenges married life hastened by premarital pregnancy, high risk factor increases likelihood of divorce marrying during mid twenties or later doesn't guarantee happy marriage if one settles for spouse due to shrinking marriage market