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Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies

Impact factor: 0.978 5-Year impact factor: 1.639 Print ISSN: 0197-6664 Online ISSN: 1741-3729 Publisher: Wiley Blackwell (Blackwell Publishing)

Subjects: Family Studies, Social Work

Most recent papers:

  • Family resilience and posttraumatic growth among caregivers of children with disabilities: A longitudinal study.
    Xiaojiao Yuan, Xi Zhao, Jing Zhao, Yurou Duan.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. 2 days ago
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThe goal was to explore the longitudinal bidirectional relationship between family resilience and posttraumatic growth (PTG) among caregivers of children with disabilities.\n\n\nBackground\nIn collectivist cultures, families play a central role in individual psychological adaptation following trauma. Although prior research has examined the link between individual resilience and PTG, little is known about how family resilience dynamically relates to PTG, particularly among caregivers of children with disabilities.\n\n\nMethod\nThis study drew on three‐wave longitudinal data collected over 6 months from 240 family caregivers of children with disabilities in China. A random intercept cross‐lagged panel model was used to examine both within‐person and between‐person associations between family resilience and PTG.\n\n\nResults\nResults showed that (a) at the within‐person level, family resilience and PTG predicted each other over time, suggesting a bidirectional, mutually reinforcing relationship; and (b) at the between‐person level, stable individual differences in family resilience were positively associated with stable differences in PTG, indicating trait‐level coupling. These findings extend trauma adaptation models by revealing a reciprocal relationship between family resilience and PTG over time.\n\n\nConclusions\nThese findings reveal a reciprocal link between family resilience and PTG, extending trauma recovery models and guiding culturally informed interventions for caregivers of children with disabilities in collectivist contexts.\n\n"]
    May 08, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70251   open full text
  • The great paradox of parenthood: Meanings and experiences among adults in Chile.
    Consuelo Novoa, Gabriela Nazar, Félix Cova, Germán Lagos‐Sepúlveda, Adis López‐Bauta.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. 8 days ago
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nThis study describes the paradox of parenthood in the meanings and experiences of mothers and fathers in Chile.\n\n\nBackground\nThe paradox reflects the coexistence of positive and negative aspects that shape parenting as a complex and often ambivalent experience. The study addresses the scarcity of research exploring parental tensions and ambivalences in Latin American contexts, particularly in Chile, where cultural and socioeconomic dynamics remain underexamined in global literature.\n\n\nMethod\nA phenomenological design was employed, with a sample of 18 participants, all established adults with at least one child between 2 and 12 years of age. Participants were recruited using snowball sampling, and data were collected through semistructured interviews. In the data analysis, the reflexive thematic analysis approach was employed.\n\n\nResults\nFive main themes were found: (a) meanings of parenthood: contradictions between ideals and lived experience; (b) losses and identity reconfigurations associated with parenthood; (c) incompatible demands: tensions between childrearing and other socially demanding roles; (d) the social environment as a source of both support and strain; and (e) emotional ambivalence in the experience of parenthood.\n\n\nConclusion\nContradictions emerge as inherent to parenting, underscoring the need to alleviate social and emotional pressures and foster realistic expectations and dialogue among caregivers.\n\n"]
    May 02, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70211   open full text
  • Stability and change in children's residence arrangements after parental separation.
    Tonje Holt, Linda Larsen, Daniel R. Meyer, Bruce M. Smyth.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. 8 days ago
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjectives\nThis study examines stability and change in children's residence arrangements after parental separation in Norway using detailed categories of residence arrangements.\n\n\nBackground\nMost studies use broad classifications of residence arrangements. Finer distinctions may offer better insight into the dynamics of postseparation arrangements.\n\n\nMethod\nThe sample comprises 800 children from 504 separated families recruited from family counselling offices in Norway. Residence arrangements are categorized into two (shared and sole residence), three (symmetric shared, asymmetric shared and sole residence), and four groups (symmetric shared, asymmetric shared, extended sole, and limited sole). Descriptive analyses assess change over two occasions (approximately 1.75 years). Logistic regression models test factors associated with change.\n\n\nResults\nShared residence is more stable than sole residence, but different categorizations lead to different conclusions. Symmetric shared residence (50–50) is most common and stable. Children whose parents have repartnered are less likely to change arrangements.\n\n\nConclusion\nSymmetric shared residence appears to be a stable and prevalent postseparation arrangement, contrasting with earlier studies that emphasized instability.\n\n\nImplications\nThese findings may reflect broader social changes, including increased father involvement, more mothers in the workforce, and more supports for shared parenting. More granular categorizations of residence arrangements enhance our understanding of postseparation parenting time.\n\n"]
    May 02, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70204   open full text
  • Parenting in the digital age: How parenting stress shapes screen media parenting strategies.
    Enid A. Moreira, Alexandra Schek, Daniel M. Bagner, Shayl F. Griffith.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. 8 days ago
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study examined whether distinct dimensions of parenting stress uniquely predict screen media parenting strategies beyond child externalizing behaviors.\n\n\nBackground\nAlthough child behavior problems are linked to increased screen media use, less is known about how caregiver stress contributes independently to screen media parenting practices. Understanding this link is critical, particularly during early childhood, when media habits are forming and caregivers guide regulation.\n\n\nMethod\nA national U.S. sample of caregivers (N = 822) of children ages 4 to 8 years completed online surveys assessing child externalizing behaviors (Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire), parenting stress (Parenting Stress Index–Short Form), and screen media parenting strategies. Hierarchical regression models tested the predictive effects of parental distress, parent–child dysfunctional interaction, and difficult child stress on (a) use of screens for behavior regulation and (b) screen rule limit setting, controlling for child behavior.\n\n\nResults\nGreater caregiver‐perceived child difficulty predicted more screen use for behavior regulation, whereas higher parental distress predicted fewer enforced screen time limits. These effects were significant over and above the effect of child externalizing behavior.\n\n\nConclusions\nParenting stress dimensions show distinct, independent associations with screen media parenting strategies beyond child behavior.\n\n\nImplications\nFindings highlight the need to address caregiver distress and perceptions of child difficulty when promoting healthy screen media routines during early childhood.\n\n"]
    May 02, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70186   open full text
  • How to reciprocate with love? The impact of gift‐giving on marital satisfaction.
    Shichang Liang, Huijie Zhu, Wenrong Chen, Wanshan Deng, Junyan He, Yizheng Zhou, Hongjie Fu.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. 11 days ago
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study explored what type of gifts (material vs. experiential) can enhance marital satisfaction, and how the type of gift affects marital satisfaction among couples.\n\n\nBackground\nPrevious research on marital satisfaction focused mostly on the “contextual effects” of couples' interactions, with little attention to the “event‐specific effects” of gift‐giving. This study employed a new perspective to research the impact of gift‐giving on marital satisfaction, offering theoretical insights into gift‐giving practices and a fresh perspective on promoting family happiness and harmony.\n\n\nMethod\nThis study relied on a systematic literature review to propose three hypotheses, incorporating self‐construal into the research framework. We recruited 403 participants for three experiments to examine the impact of gift‐giving on marital satisfaction and the moderating role of self‐construal.\n\n\nResults\nThis research showed that material gifts, compared to experiential ones, better improved marital satisfaction with emotional intensity as a mediator. Additionally, self‐construal moderated the effect of gift type on marital satisfaction, which is different from prior studies suggesting experiential gifts strengthen social bonds.\n\n\nConclusion\nThe current study suggests that couples should consider material gifts or highlight their material attributes (like the lasting nature of marital affection) during gift‐giving to enhance marital satisfaction.\n\n"]
    April 29, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70167   open full text
  • From individual to community: A mediation model of support for women experiencing intimate partner abuse.
    Tamar Ginati, Yael Itzhaki‐Braun.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. 11 days ago
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study examines the contribution of income, familial and social support, sense of community, and societal conditional regard to the well‐being and self‐efficacy of women experiencing intimate partner abuse (IPA) in Israel.\n\n\nBackground\nThe prevalence of IPA is a recognized global public health threat. While most research focuses on individual psychological impacts, feminist theory suggests broader community systems play crucial roles in women's experiences.\n\n\nMethods\nThis study analyzed data from Israeli women (n = 124; aged 25–75, M = 40.5, SD = 9.8) who experienced IPA. Path analysis tested a mediation model examining how community factors and income contribute to well‐being and self‐efficacy.\n\n\nResults\nFamilial and social support mediated relationships between community factors and outcomes. Sense of community and societal conditional positive regard functioned as protective factors, whereas societal conditional negative regard emerged as a risk factor. Economic status influenced support systems, with lower income women receiving less support, negatively affecting well‐being and self‐efficacy.\n\n\nConclusion\nCommunities serve dual roles for women experiencing IPA—providing protection through positive regard and connection, while potentially undermining well‐being through negative conditional attitudes.\n\n\nImplications\nThese findings highlight the need for community‐based interventions alongside individual treatment approaches, emphasizing the connection between private and public spheres in addressing IPA.\n\n"]
    April 29, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70164   open full text
  • How parental influences and self‐concept shape adolescent brand sensitivity and purchase behavior.
    George Chung‐Chi Shen.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. 11 days ago
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nThis study examines how parental influence, peer pressure, and celebrity worship shape adolescents' brand sensitivity and purchase behavior, with self‐concept clarity as a moderating factor.\n\n\nBackground\nAdolescents are heavily influenced by social factors, with parents, peers, and celebrities affecting their consumer behavior. Understanding how these influences interact with self‐concept clarity can provide insights into adolescent purchasing decisions.\n\n\nMethod\nData were collected using a dyadic approach, with high school students and their parents completing surveys. Structural equation modeling was applied to test the effects of social influences and self‐concept clarity on brand sensitivity and purchase intentions.\n\n\nResults\nParental brand sensitivity and materialism strongly influenced adolescents' brand sensitivity. Celebrity worship positively influenced attitude toward the brand and influenced purchase intention only among adolescents with lower self‐concept clarity. In contrast, adolescents with high self‐concept rely more on their internal attitudes toward a brand when making purchase decisions.\n\n\nConclusion\nAdolescents' brand sensitivity and purchase behavior are influenced by a combination of parental influence, peer pressure, and celebrity worship, moderated by self‐concept clarity.\n\n\nImplications\nThese findings suggest that promoting parental influence and self‐concept clarity can help adolescents make more independent consumer decisions, reducing the impact of external social pressures. This insight is valuable for families and those guiding adolescents in their purchasing behaviors.\n\n"]
    April 29, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70199   open full text
  • Adult grandchildren's perception of grandparents' personality and emotional closeness with the grandparent.
    Shiyue Bao, Tianyuan Li.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. 13 days ago
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study aimed to examine adult grandchildren's perception of four grandparents' personality traits and how these perceptions, along with personality similarity to the grandparent, are related to emotional closeness.\n\n\nBackground\nThe relationships between adult grandchildren and their grandparents are becoming more prevalent and impactful in contemporary societies. Adult grandchildren's perception of the grandparents' personality can significantly influence how they maintain the relationship with each grandparent.\n\n\nMethod\nWe surveyed 184 Chinese adult grandchildren with at least one living grandparent (Mage = 19.27 years, SDage = 1.56) about their perception of grandparents' Big Five personality traits and emotional closeness with each grandparent.\n\n\nResults\nThe results revealed that all four grandparents were perceived as high in conscientiousness, and the maternal grandmother was also perceived to be high in agreeableness. Grandparents' conscientiousness was also an important factor contributing to emotional closeness with all four grandparents. Interestingly, personality similarity to the grandparent was negatively associated with emotional closeness with the maternal grandmother. A marginally significant negative effect of personality similarity was also found for emotional closeness with the maternal grandfather, but only for grandsons.\n\n\nConclusion and Implications\nThese results reveal both similarities and differences in grandparents' perceived personality profiles across lineage. The findings also highlight the significance of grandparents' positive personality traits in sustaining a close relationship with adult grandchildren.\n\n"]
    April 27, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70217   open full text
  • Perceptions of Parenting Beliefs and Practices in Fathers of Adolescents.
    Marcus Gottlieb, Jessica P. Lougheed.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. 13 days ago
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nWe examined how fathers' identity beliefs relate to their parenting behaviors during their children's adolescence.\n\n\nBackground\nAlthough identity theory has been used to understand parental roles, fathers' identity beliefs and parenting behaviors during adolescence remain understudied. This study focused on three aspects of fatherhood identity—feelings evoked, perceived impact, and strain—and their associations with supportive and controlling parenting practices.\n\n\nMethod\nThis cross‐sectional survey involved 214 fathers of adolescents in British Columbia, Canada, with the most common age range being 41 to 45 years. Data were collected via an online survey assessing fatherhood identity beliefs and two parenting practices: support and negative control. Hierarchical regression analyses were conducted to examine these associations while accounting for contextual factors related to fatherhood.\n\n\nResults\nFathers who perceived fatherhood as having a stronger personal impact reported more supportive parenting practices. Higher perceived strain was associated with greater use of controlling behaviors, particularly among fathers with European backgrounds. Two‐way interactions indicated that the association between perceived strain and negative control was weaker for fathers from non‐European backgrounds, and that the association between perceived impact and negative control was stronger among fathers who were not fully employed. Among fathers who were not fully employed, having a stronger perceived impact was associated with more negative control practices. Fathers living in smaller population centers reported lower levels of controlling practices than those in large urban areas.\n\n\nConclusion\nThe findings indicate that identity beliefs, particularly perceptions of impact and strain, are associated with fathers' use of supportive and controlling practices. These associations were moderated by employment status, race/ethnicity, and geography, underscoring the contextual factors that shape paternal behavior during adolescence.\n\n\nImplications\nThese findings suggest that efforts to strengthen father–child relationships should integrate both psychological and contextual factors. Strategies that reduce paternal strain and promote engagement, such as flexible work policies, community‐based programs, and culturally responsive approaches, may better meet the needs of fathers across settings.\n\n"]
    April 27, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70205   open full text
  • Relationship between grandparenting stress and emotional well‐being: The moderating role of benefit finding.
    Shi‐Min Chen, Jie Fang, Yan‐Yun Xiao.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. 13 days ago
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nTo explore the moderating role of benefit‐finding in the relationship between grandparenting stress and emotional well‐being.\n\n\nBackground\nGrandparents face multiple pressures in the process of assisting with childcare, which significantly affects their mental health. It is an important task for family researchers to develop effective strategies aimed at improving the mental health of grandparents involved in grandchild care.\n\n\nMethods\nA total of 244 grandparents completed the Grandparenting Stress Questionnaire, the Relatedness Benefit Finding Questionnaire in Grandparenting, the Reproduction‐Immortality Benefit‐Finding Questionnaire in Grandparenting, and the Emotional Experience of Well‐Being Questionnaire.\n\n\nResults\nGrandparenting stress showed significant interaction effects with both relatedness benefit finding and reproduction‐immortality benefit finding. The moderating effect size of reproduction‐immortality benefit finding (ΔR2 = 0.026) was greater than that of relatedness benefit finding (ΔR2 = 0.012). Elevated levels of benefit finding contribute to enhancing grandparents' positive emotions and mitigating negative ones, thereby enabling their emotional well‐being to sustain a relatively high level even in high‐stress situations.\n\n\nConclusion\nBoth relatedness and reproduction‐immortality benefits finding in grandparenting moderated the effect of grandparenting stress on emotional well‐being.\n\n\nImplications\nGrandparents can enhance their emotional well‐being by finding the benefits of caring for their grandchildren.\n\n"]
    April 27, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70198   open full text
  • Translation and psychometric evaluation of the Parental Stress Scale in a Swedish sample.
    Åsa Carlsund, Lotha Valan, Åsa Hörnsten, Ulf Isaksson.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. 13 days ago
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study aimed to translate and preliminarily evaluate the Swedish translation of the Parental Stress Scale.\n\n\nBackground\nParenting is influenced by a complex mix of personal, social, and cultural factors, often leading to stress and exhaustion from competing demands. In Sweden, supportive policies like parental leave and childcare services encourage shared responsibilities and work–life balance. Despite these supports, many parents experience stress related to time constraints, mental health issues, and limited resources, which can impact both their parenting and their child's development.\n\n\nMethod\nA quantitative psychometric design was used. The Parental Stress Scale was translated into Swedish and tested among parents of children aged 0–5 years at two Child Health Centers. The data were examined through psychometric analysis, and a confirmatory factor analysis was performed to assess model fit.\n\n\nResults\nThe goodness of fit of the translated Parental Stress Scale was acceptable, indicating that the translation is appropriate for use in a Swedish context. The chi‐square test revealed a significant p value, likely due to the small sample size, and the relative chi‐square (1.48) fell within the recommended range (2.0–5.0).\n\n\nConclusion\nThese findings suggest that the translated Parental Stress Scale should be used with caution, as it more accurately measures parental stress than satisfaction among this group of parents. Its use at Child Health Centers enables early stress detection among parents, supports interventions, and complements screening. In research, the scale can help evaluate parenting programs and long‐term studies, promoting international comparison.\n\n"]
    April 27, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70174   open full text
  • “I teach her at home”: Home learning environments amid resource constraints.
    Jill Hoiting, Sarah Halpern‐Meekin.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. April 23, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nThis study examined how mothers with low incomes think about and enact investments of time and money for their infants and toddlers.\n\n\nBackground\nInfancy and toddlerhood are pivotal years for development. Home learning environments in these earliest years can also set the stage for later home learning environments. Yet there are few institutional supports available to children at this age, underscoring the role of parental investments and the salience of resource access in parenting approaches.\n\n\nMethods\nThis analysis used longitudinal, semistructured interviews with 80 mothers who were participating in an unconditional cash transfer experiment.\n\n\nResults\nMothers described intentionally structuring their time, allocating resources, and shaping their spaces to construct the home learning environments they desired for their young children. The analysis of their narratives resulted in four characterizations of how mothers described investing in home learning environments for their infants and toddlers.\n\n\nConclusion\nMothers exercised agency in fostering the growth and development of their infants and toddlers by prioritizing and investing in home learning environments, highlighting how resources of time and money shaped their parenting.\n\n\nImplications\nParents exert their agency in supporting the development of their young children, which policy can potentially activate and leverage by ensuring parents have adequate resources.\n\n"]
    April 23, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70200   open full text
  • Connecting generations: The roles of age, time perception, and Facebook in family communication.
    Eun Hwa Jung.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. April 22, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study examined the impact of age on time perception and the use of social networking sites (SNSs), together with the role these factors play in family communication and social support.\n\n\nBackground\nDrawing on socioemotional selectivity theory, which examines changes in the prioritization of emotionally meaningful relationships with age, this study integrated this perspective with current research on SNS usage. Facebook was chosen as the SNS due to its accessibility to multiple generations of users.\n\n\nMethod\nAn online survey of 172 younger (20–34 years old) and 117 older (65+ years old) Facebook users in the United States was conducted.\n\n\nResults\nAnalysis revealed that younger adults considered time to be open‐ended, whereas older adults perceived it to be limited. Facebook use significantly enhanced family communication and social support, especially in older adults, where increased interaction with family on the platform was associated with greater perceived support—despite a negative direct relationship between age and social support.\n\n\nConclusion\nThis study demonstrated that age‐related shifts in time perception shape online social networks, where older adults formed family‐centered connections on Facebook that enhanced communication and social support.\n\n\nImplications\nThe findings of this study have important implications for the understanding of age‐related SNS use and intergenerational communication via SNSs.\n\n"]
    April 22, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70163   open full text
  • Marital status on women's experiences in VSLA in Fort Portal, Uganda.
    Donath Asiimire, Isabella Gilbertson, Alia Dada, Cheryl A. Moyer, HaEun Lee.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. April 20, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study examined how marital status influences women's financial engagement and opportunities in Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) in Fort Portal, Uganda.\n\n\nBackground\nVSLAs are vital for providing access to financial services in areas with limited traditional banking. Although previous studies have highlighted the benefits of VSLAs, there is limited research on how women's marital status affects their experiences within these groups.\n\n\nMethod\nThis qualitative study used focus group discussions conducted in July 2023, involving 51 participants from five VSLA groups in Fort Portal. Participants included married women, single women, widows, VSLA male members, and husbands of VSLA participants. The discussions were guided by semistructured questions and analyzed through thematic content analysis.\n\n\nResults\nNine themes emerged, categorized into financial aspects, social aspects, and marital status and gender dynamics within VSLAs. Limited financial resources often led to inequitable loan access, with prioritization based on loan purpose and member tenure. Women frequently used loans for life events rather than income‐generating activities, complicating repayment. Participants expressed a need for improved financial literacy and income‐generating skills. Social connections were crucial for joining VSLAs, which also provided significant social support. Marital status affected loan access, with widows and single women facing greater challenges. Empathy and concerns were evident based on marital status, and men were recognized as valued contributors to VSLAs.\n\n\nConclusion\nThe study underscores the need for targeted interventions to address disparities faced by widows and single women in accessing VSLA loans. Improving financial literacy and supporting income‐generating activities can enhance VSLA effectiveness. Fostering an inclusive environment within VSLAs will better address the diverse needs of all members. Future research should investigate the longitudinal impacts and regional variations in how marital status affects women's financial engagement and opportunities within VSLAs.\n\n"]
    April 20, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70140   open full text
  • Taiwanese intimate partners' gender determines latent profiles of gender role attitudes and perceived equity.
    Chia‐Feng Chen, Daniel W. Russell, Chyi‐In Wu.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. April 20, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThe current study examined whether Taiwanese intimate partners' gender would determine their latent profiles of gender role attitudes, warmth toward partner, and perceived equity at home and in society.\n\n\nBackground\nTaiwanese middle‐aged adults have received traditional education rooted in Confucianism and encountered societal shifts in gender roles. How their gender in the context of East Asian cultures affects their gender role profiles is understudied.\n\n\nMethod\nUsing data collected in 2022 from the Taiwan Social Change Survey, a nationally representative data set, we conducted a latent profile analysis of Taiwanese intimate partners (Mage = 52.5, N = 1,024, 55% female) to explore potential determinants of their group membership of gender role profiles.\n\n\nResults\nThree latent groups were identified: The largest group (64%; mostly men) had the highest egalitarian gender role attitudes and warmth toward partner. The other two groups were a more traditional gender role profile (21%; mostly women) and an egalitarian gender role profile with the lowest perceived inequity at home and in society (16%; mostly women).\n\n\nConclusion\nTaiwanese gender role attitudes have been more egalitarian over the past decade. Intimate partners' gender predicts their gender role profiles as indicated by variables across bioecological levels such as individual gender role attitudes, warmth toward partner, and perceived equity in family and society.\n\n\nImplications\nThe fact that a large proportion of Taiwanese men showed more egalitarian gender role attitudes is worth investigating. Practitioners promoting gender equity could pay more attention to clients' gender role profiles.\n\n"]
    April 20, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70229   open full text
  • Household chaos: Parents' self‐compassion and difficulties of children with and without autism.
    Shani Aviad, Shlomit Shnitzer‐Meirovich, Ayelet Gur.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. April 17, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjectives\nThis study examined links among parents' self‐compassion, child‐related difficulties, and household chaos in families of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and typically developing (TD) children.\n\n\nBackground\nChaotic environments are linked to adverse child outcomes, but parents' self‐compassion may mitigate these effects. Prior research suggests that parents of children with ASD may experience more chaos and less self‐compassion, raising questions about how these associations differ from TD families.\n\n\nMethods\nA total of 242 parents (106 with ASD children, 136 with TD children) completed online self‐report measures. Mediation and moderation analyses were performed using PROCESS.\n\n\nResults\nIn both groups, child‐related difficulties mediated the association between parents' self‐compassion and household chaos: greater self‐compassion related to fewer child difficulties and less chaos. Parents of ASD children reported more child difficulties and household chaos, although self‐compassion levels did not differ. Importantly, among TD families, but not ASD families, child difficulties moderated the link between parent self‐compassion and chaos.\n\n\nConclusion\nFindings highlight the value of fostering parents' self‐compassion to better manage child challenges and reduce chaos. Further research is needed to identify additional resources to assist families of children with ASD.\n\n\nImplications\nTailored interventions are needed to address the unique challenges facing families of children with ASD.\n\n"]
    April 17, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70193   open full text
  • Incongruence in fathers' and mothers' adverse childhood experiences and children's behavior problems.
    Natalie Grafft, Rebekah Levine Coley, Catherine Taylor, Kirsten K. Davison, Karen S. Lyons.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. April 17, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nTo examine associations between (in)congruence within parent dyads' adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and children's behavior problems.\n\n\nBackground\nDespite evidence that both parents influence child health, studies on multigenerational consequences of ACEs have focused on one parent. Yet many children have two parents exposed to ACEs. Fathers' and mothers' ACEs may intersect, and their shared, or differing, experience of ACEs may have implications for children's health and development.\n\n\nMethods\nParticipants were 400 father–mother dyads from a cohort study. Parents reported on their own home‐based (i.e., abuse, household dysfunction) and community‐based (i.e., discrimination, community violence) ACEs. Fathers reported on children's behavior problems. Three dyadic variables for parent ACEs were created in a structural equation model: parent‐dyad ACE average, absolute magnitude of incongruence in ACEs, and direction of incongruence in ACEs. Ordinary least squares regressions examined associations between dyadic ACEs variables and children's behavior problems. Separate models were estimated for home‐ and community‐based ACEs.\n\n\nResults\nGreater incongruence in parental community‐based ACEs was associated with behavior problems in children (B = 1.04, p < .05).\n\n\nConclusion\nDissimilar experiences of parental community‐based ACEs may have implications for children.\n\n\nImplications\nTo support the development of couple‐level interventions, research should examine pathways of transmission (i.e., coparenting quality).\n\n"]
    April 17, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70191   open full text
  • “Like talking to the wall”: Family estrangement of China's Gen Z.
    Xia Song, Naijuan Sun.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. April 16, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nThis study employs a grounded theory approach to explore the experience of family estrangement among adult children of China's Gen Z, aiming to uncover its underlying mechanisms and dynamic characteristics.\n\n\nBackground\nDespite its increasing prevalence, family estrangement remains insufficiently theorized and measured, particularly among China's Gen Z, whose distinct experiences call for culturally sensitive frameworks and tools.\n\n\nMethod\nUsing questionnaire screening, 60 Gen Z participants from different Chinese areas were selected for in‐depth interviews designed to explore the causes and manifestations of family estrangement.\n\n\nResults\nAnalysis identified six key dimensions of estrangement: (a) communication quality, (b) communication frequency, (c) physical and psychological distance, (d) negative events, (e) role reciprocity, and (f) support from other family members. On the basis of these findings, the study proposes a conceptual framework to assess the severity of estrangement.\n\n\nConclusion\nThe findings suggest that family estrangement among China's Gen Z adult children is not a monolithic or linear phenomenon but rather a complex construct characterized by internal contradictions and multiple facets.\n\n\nImplications\nThis study contributes theoretical foundation for enhancing the understanding of family estrangement among Gen Z adult children. It also offers a multidimensional structure for assessing estrangement, thereby providing evidence‐based support for interventions aimed at fostering healthier and more positive family relationships.\n\n"]
    April 16, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70182   open full text
  • The relationship between parental digital parenting self‐efficacy and children's prosocial behavior: A moderated chain‐mediated model.
    Haojie Yuan, Zhonglian Yan, Yaping Yue, Jie Wang, Lina Ma.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. April 16, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study aimed to examine the relationship between parental self‐efficacy in digital parenting and children's prosocial behavior, with a particular focus on the chain mediating roles of active parental digital intervention and children's digital literacy, as well as the moderating role of children's problematic media use.\n\n\nBackground\nIn the digital age, parents face growing challenges in guiding children's online experiences. Parental self‐efficacy in digital parenting may shape children's prosocial behavior via sequential mediators (active intervention and digital literacy), with problematic media use moderating the final path. Clarifying these processes aids targeted interventions.\n\n\nMethod\nA cross‐sectional questionnaire study grounded in family systems theory and parental mediation theory for the digital age was conducted using stratified sampling with 471 parents of preschoolers in central China.\n\n\nResults\nThe findings revealed that (a) parental self‐efficacy in digital parenting was positively associated with children's prosocial behavior, (b) active parental digital intervention and children's digital literacy together played a significant chain mediating role in this relationship, and (c) in the chain mediation model, children's level of problematic media use moderated the pathway from “children's digital literacy → children's prosocial behavior.”\n\n\nConclusion\nParents should take a dialectical view of the influence of digital media on the development of children's prosocial behavior, innovate digital parenting concepts, enhance digital parenting self‐efficacy, and scientifically and reasonably control the use of digital media by children in terms of time, content, and methods to improve children's digital literacy, prevent children from becoming digitally obsessed, and enhance children's prosocial behavior.\n\n"]
    April 16, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70172   open full text
  • Maternal technoference and children's social withdrawal: Role of screen exposure and companionship.
    Shuwei Zhan, Yingqi Cai, Ziyan Hu, Jinna Guo, Kuai Song.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. April 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nThis study examines the impact of maternal “technoference” on children's social withdrawal, with screen exposure as a potential mediator and maternal companionship during screen time as a moderator of this mediation.\n\n\nBackground\nIncreasing availability of digital media has caused disruptions in communication and interaction, referred to as “technoference.” However, the underlying mechanisms and protective factors that mitigate the intergenerational effects of technoference in the Chinese context remain unexplored.\n\n\nMethod\nThis study included 785 preschoolers (50.2% boys) and their mothers from Anhui and Guangdong provinces. Mothers completed online questionnaires on technoference, companionship, demographics, children's screen time, and social withdrawal. Moderated mediation effects were analyzed using SPSS Statistics 27.0 with Macro Process Model 14.\n\n\nResults and conclusions\nTechnoference was positively related to children's screen time. Screen time was positively associated with social withdrawal and mediated the effect of technoference on social withdrawal. Maternal companionship moderated the effect of screen time on social withdrawal and the indirect effect of technoference on social withdrawal through screen time, whereby the two effects are weaker when companionship is high.\n\n\nImplication\nOur findings highlight the significance of screen exposure duration and maternal companionship in developing interventions for Chinese mothers and children experiencing technoference.\n\n"]
    April 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70189   open full text
  • Family dynamics and death row: A dual‐theory approach.
    Reyhaneh Bagheri.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. April 10, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nThis study investigates how the incarceration and death sentence of a loved one impact family dynamics in Malaysia, drawing on restorative justice and family systems theories.\n\n\nBackground\nDespite the global movement toward abolishing the death penalty, Malaysia continues to impose discretionary death sentences for crimes such as murder and drug trafficking. While debates on capital punishment are well documented, the experiences of families of death row inmates remain largely neglected in Malaysia.\n\n\nMethods\nSemistructured interviews with families of death row inmates in Malaysia were analyzed using abductive thematic analysis.\n\n\nResults\nFindings reveal profound emotional distress, stigma, financial strain, and disruptions in family roles. Coping mechanisms, including religious faith, community support, and strengthened family cohesion, were identified as crucial.\n\n\nConclusion\nThe study underscores the urgent need for legal reforms and tailored family support systems, highlighting the importance of restorative justice approaches to foster healing and resilience within affected families.\n\n\nImplications\nThe findings call for systemic reform within Malaysia's criminal legal framework. Accessible legal aid, improved prison communication systems, and transparent processes for appeals and pardons are steps toward alleviating the burdens families face. Given the abolition of the mandatory death penalty and the ongoing resentencing of affected cases, advocacy organizations and policymakers should collaborate to develop comprehensive reintegration programs for former death row inmates, alongside support services tailored to the specific needs of their families.\n\n"]
    April 10, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70183   open full text
  • Exploring the antecedents of creative deviance: The role of family communication patterns and paradox mindset.
    Jie Liu, Hui Chen, Xiao‐Yi Gu, Xiao‐Hua Wang.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. April 10, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nGiven the pivotal role that creative deviance can play in fostering low‐input, high‐return outcomes for organizations, this study delves into the antecedents of creative deviance.\n\n\nBackground\nDrawing on family communication patterns theory and social learning theory, we propose that the conversation‐orientation communication pattern in one's family of origin influences employee creative deviance through a paradox mindset, with the conformity orientation communication pattern playing a moderating role.\n\n\nMethod\nMultiwave data were collected from 246 employees in Chinese private enterprises. Family communication patterns and paradox mindset were measured at Time 1; creative deviance was measured at Time 2 (two weeks later). Valid questionnaires totaled 173.\n\n\nResults\nThe results indicate a significant positive relationship between conversation orientation and individual paradox mindset. Furthermore, the individual's paradox mindset mediated the positive relationship between conversation orientation and employee creative deviance. Additionally, the conformity orientation moderated the impact of conversation orientation on paradox mindset and its mediating effect, with both effects being weaker when conformity orientation was high.\n\n\nConclusion\nThese findings demonstrate that family‐of‐origin experiences shape adult workplace innovation behavior through cognitive mechanisms, extending understanding of how early family socialization influences employees' responses to innovation tensions in organizational settings.\n\n"]
    April 10, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70151   open full text
  • Assessing parental family education competency: A multiaspect situational judgment test approach.
    Chunhua Kang, Qingwen Dai, Shengnan Zhou, Yangchun Gong.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. April 09, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nBased on the cognitive‐affective‐behavioral response model (CABR model) and practical intelligence theory, we constructed a multiaspect and multidimension theoretical framework to understand parental family education competency (PFEC) and described the validation of an 18‐story situational judgment test.\n\n\nBackground\nMost PFEC assessments have focused only on parental sense of family education competency, with a lack of research based on the CABR model and practical intelligence theory under context‐activated situational judgment tests.\n\n\nMethod\nWe used three samples (N1 = 541; N2 = 407; N3 = 354) to validate the “Cognitive‐Emotional‐Behavioral” Multidimensional Family Education Situational Judgment Test (“C‐E‐B” MFESJT) as a three‐aspect and three‐dimension structure, and tested the validation and reliability of “C‐E‐B” MFESJT through confirmatory factor analysis, network analysis, correlation analysis, t tests and one‐way analyses of variance.\n\n\nResults\nThe results indicated that the factor structure of the three aspects was consistent with the assessment framework. The “C‐E‐B” MFESJT demonstrated good internal consistency (αs = .776–.865) and composite reliabilities (.70–.768), as well as good criterion validity and demographic characteristics.\n\n\nConclusions and Implications\nThe “C‐E‐B” MFESJT is a context‐activated assessment tool that can contribute to parenting research and practical application.\n\n"]
    April 09, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70156   open full text
  • Thriving kinship care: Navigating the boundaries between child protection system and family life.
    Fatin Shabbar, Esther Rowlson, Amy Bromley, Carmela Bastian, Nada Ibrahim.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. April 09, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study offers a preliminary exploration into the meaning of success in statutory kinship care, with a focus on critically analyzing the conceptualization of kinship care as a complex form of family care, extending beyond child protection service provision.\n\n\nBackground\nKinship care in Australia is increasingly considered the preferred option for children within the out‐of‐home care system. Although the capacity of kinship care to support successful outcomes for children is acknowledged, limited attention has been paid to understanding the lived meaning of success in these care arrangements.\n\n\nMethod\nData were collected through semistructured interviews with 34 kinship carers connected to the South Australian child protection system using a multimethod recruitment process. All interviews were analyzed using an iterative process of thematic analysis, grounded in narrative inquiry.\n\n\nResults\nKinship carers described success through the lens of everyday life, prioritizing emotional connections and familial relational bonds as fundamental elements of understanding and measuring positive outcomes in children's lives. This understanding prioritizes a child‐in‐context perspective with an emphasis on recognizing care qualities that foster belonging, happiness, routine, and growth.\n\n\nConclusion\nReconceptualizing kinship care beyond the confines of child protection service allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the support structures required to facilitate and maintain success within this system of care.\n\n\nImplications\nResponds to the needs of children and kinship carers should begin with centering their voices and lived experiences, employing a family‐centered model of support that focuses on strengthening and resourcing family connections and networks that support children's development and well‐being.\n\n"]
    April 09, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70087   open full text
  • Predictors of parental literacy involvement: The role of interparental conflict and couple relationship quality.
    Qiujie Gong, Karen Z. Kramer.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. April 07, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study explores the longitudinal association between the frequency of interparental conflict and parental literacy involvement among married couples. Couple relationship quality was examined as a potential mediator in this process, while conflict resolution was included as a potential moderator in the link between interparental conflict and couple relationship quality.\n\n\nBackground\nParental literacy involvement is an important factor in children's early literacy development. However, few studies have examined how couple relationship dynamics may influence both mothers' and fathers' literacy involvement with their children.\n\n\nMethods\nThis study used data from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Studies (ECLS‐B) dataset. The final sample of our study consisted of 3,955 children and their families. 51.8% (n = 2,049) of the children were boys and 48.2% (n = 1,906) were girls.\n\n\nResults\nCouple relationship quality significantly mediated the relationship between interparental conflict and both parents' literacy involvement. Additionally, constructive conflict resolution significantly moderated the association between interparental conflict frequency and couple relationship quality. However, no significant moderated mediation effect was found.\n\n\nConclusion\nFindings suggest that conflict between parents may influence both couple relationship quality and parenting practices. Although constructive conflict resolution can buffer the negative effects of interparental conflict on couple relationship quality, parents' literacy involvement with children can still be influenced by conflict regardless of resolution strategies.\n\n\nImplication\nThese findings highlight the importance of developing intervention and prevention programs as well as couple therapies that focus on parenting behaviors and conflict resolution skills in the context of conflict to promote better family and child outcomes. © 2026 by the National Council on Family Relations.\n\n"]
    April 07, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70179   open full text
  • Buffering roles of financial resilience in navigating family stress and adolescent distress: A conditional process analysis.
    Zewei Liu, Ji‐Kang Chen.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. April 01, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study examined the buffering roles of financial resilience in serial mechanisms between family economic adversity and adolescent psychological distress.\n\n\nBackground\nResilience factors are assumed to buffer family stress processes, although previous studies have primarily discussed the psychological rather than financial aspects. Financial resilience is perceived as an important socioeconomic indicator for coping with adversity, although its moderating effects in the pathways from economic adversity to parent psychological distress, family conflict, and then adolescent psychological distress remain understudied.\n\n\nMethod\nA conditional process analysis was conducted to analyze parent and adolescent data from a national survey in Mainland China.\n\n\nResults\nParent psychological distress and family conflict significantly mediated the positive association between economic adversity and adolescent psychological distress. The serial mediating effect was significant at high or low levels of financial resilience, and financial resilience significantly moderated the path from parent to adolescent psychological distress.\n\n\nConclusion\nThis study highlights the conditionally protective roles of financial resilience in family stress processes. It provides insights into the weakening intergenerational transmission of psychological distress during economic adversity.\n\n\nImplications\nThis study suggests innovative and targeted practices for enhancing financial well‐being, family dynamics, and mental health in the face of socioeconomic challenges.\n\n"]
    April 01, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70162   open full text
  • Beyond the invisible. Young adult children of parents with mental illness: Exploring risks and resources.
    Chiara Naomi Ielo, Giada Rapelli, Roberto Cattivelli, Giulia Landi, Eliana Tossani, Silvana Grandi, Ariela F. Pagani, Giada Pietrabissa, Gianluca Castelnuovo, Silvia Donato.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. April 01, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study explored risk and resources of children of parents with mental illness (COPMI).\n\n\nBackground\nCOPMI often face psychological distress and setbacks in education, careers, and relationships. They may take on premature parental roles due to limited professional support. Despite these challenges, there is scant literature on coping strategies and resources.\n\n\nMethod\nThis study of 40 young adult COPMI aimed to (a) explore risks like psychological distress and early caregiving responsibilities (parentification), alongside resources such as coping strategies and posttraumatic growth (PTG); (b) compare these factors between those with and without professional support; and (c) examine how parentification and resources relate to psychological distress.\n\n\nResults\nThe findings indicated that parentification correlated with higher psychological distress, whereas PTG correlated with lower distress. Moreover, those with professional support showed higher PTG levels than those without.\n\n\nConclusion\nThis research underscores the unmet needs of COPMI, often overlooked by psychological services and literature despite their complex caregiving roles and life challenges.\n\n\nImplications\nThis study shed light on the characteristics of the intervention provided for this population, highlighting the critical need for tailored support systems that not only address psychological distress but also foster resilience and growth.\n\n"]
    April 01, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70148   open full text
  • Pandemic parenting: Parental emotions and preschoolers—adjustment during the COVID‐19 pandemic.
    Sarah E. Martin, Elizabeth Donovan, Caitlin Curry, Charlotte Rice, Greg Feldman, Julie Wargo Aikins.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. April 01, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nThis study examined the emotional experiences of parents of young children (3–6 years old) during the COVID‐19 pandemic, including links between parental emotions and child social, emotional, and behavioral adjustment.\n\n\nBackground\nThe COVID‐19 pandemic was an emotionally complicated and challenging time for families with young children.\n\n\nMethod\nParticipants were 85 parents who responded to open‐ended questions about their emotions, coping, and parenting challenges at the end of the first year of the pandemic; responses were analyzed using both qualitative thematic analysis and quantitative text‐analysis approaches. Parents reported on child adjustment at three time points.\n\n\nResults\nThematic analyses revealed variation in parents' emotions during the pandemic, including feelings of overwhelm, sadness, and frustration but also moments of resilience and connection. The emotional tone of parents' narrative responses predicted child internalizing and externalizing symptoms 1 year later, controlling for family demographic variables and child symptoms at previous timepoints.\n\n\nConclusion\nResults contribute to our understanding of parenting emotions and early childhood social, emotional, and behavioral adjustment across the first 2 years of the COVID‐19 pandemic.\n\n\nImplications\nFindings highlight the importance of a longitudinal, emotion‐ and family‐focused approach to early childhood mental health, with implications for interventions to support families during times of crisis and social upheaval.\n\n"]
    April 01, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70185   open full text
  • Walsh Family Resilience Questionnaire: Validation among Thai caregivers of chronically ill older adults.
    Darawan Raksat, Charin Suwanwong.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 31, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study aimed to translate, culturally adapt, and validate the Walsh Family Resilience Questionnaire (WFRQ) for use among Thai family caregivers.\n\n\nBackground\nFamily caregivers in Thailand play a pivotal role in supporting older adults with chronic illness, often under considerable emotional and practical strain. Understanding family resilience is essential for designing culturally responsive interventions. Walsh's family resilience framework offers a strong theoretical foundation; however, no validated Thai‐language instrument has been available.\n\n\nMethod\nA cross‐sectional sample of 224 caregivers completed the Thai WFRQ, along with the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale–10 (CD‐RISC‐10) and the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI). Psychometric analyses included confirmatory factor analysis, internal consistency, and tests of convergent, discriminant, and concurrent validity.\n\n\nResults\nThe Thai WFRQ showed excellent reliability and confirmed the original third‐order, three‐domain factor structure. Validity was supported by strong factor loadings and appropriate indicators of construct validity. Concurrent validity was evidenced by positive correlations with resilience and negative correlations with caregiver burden.\n\n\nConclusion\nThe Thai WFRQ is a reliable and culturally appropriate tool for assessing family resilience among Thai caregivers.\n\n\nImplications\nThis study supports clinical assessment, program development, and research, while contributing to caregiver well‐being in Thailand's aging society and advancing global understanding of resilience in collectivist cultures.\n\n"]
    March 31, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70154   open full text
  • Examining the impact of divorce law reform on divorce processes and parenting arrangements in Illinois.
    So Young Park, Jennifer L. Hardesty, Brian G. Ogolsky.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 31, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study evaluated the 2015 Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act (IMDMA) amendment to determine whether it achieved its legislative goals of reducing adversarial divorce processes and promoting equitable outcomes for divorcing parents.\n\n\nBackground\nDivorce law reforms aim to reflect societal changes and improve family outcomes. The IMDMA amendment updated outdated provisions to reflect societal changes, promote fairness, streamline proceedings, and encourage shared parental responsibilities, consistent with contemporary divorce law trends nationwide.\n\n\nMethod\nUsing a pre–post design, the study analyzed 240 divorce cases filed in a large Illinois county: 120 cases before the amendment (2009–2013) and 120 after the amendment (2016–2019). Indicators of adversarial processes (i.e., divorce length, postdissolution filings) and equitable outcomes (i.e., shared decision‐making, parenting time) were compared.\n\n\nResults\nThe amendment did not significantly reduce divorce length or postdissolution filings. However, shared decision‐making increased significantly postamendment, suggesting partial success in achieving equitable parenting outcomes.\n\n\nConclusions\nThe IMDMA amendment demonstrated its effectiveness in more equitable outcomes but did not significantly reduce adversariness for divorcing parents.\n\n\nImplications\nThis study underscores the importance of evaluating legal reforms to guide future legislation and improve divorce outcomes for families. The findings offer insights for states considering similar changes to divorce laws.\n\n"]
    March 31, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70177   open full text
  • COVID‐19 and the extended family: Insights from emerging adult experiences.
    Heather M. Hessel, Emma Desens.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 29, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis qualitative study describes U.S. emerging adults' perceptions of communication and relationship quality with extended family members in the context of the COVID‐19 pandemic.\n\n\nBackground\nResearch on the pandemic has explored changes in emerging adults and their nuclear family interactions, but there is a gap in understanding extended family relationships, which are often an overlooked protective factor for emerging adults.\n\n\nMethod\nSurvey data were collected from 189 U.S. emerging adults (Mage = 24.0 years; SD = 3.2) in August 2022. Thematic analysis was used to analyze open‐ended prompts asking participants to describe their extended family relationships during the COVID‐19 pandemic.\n\n\nResults\nThe analysis resulted in five themes: (1) disconnection and conflict, (2) relational maintenance and intentional connection, (3) the dominance of online communication, (4) generational shifts accelerated, and (5) perceptions of long‐term impact. Results revealed the widespread perception of relationship deterioration, with a minority describing improved relationships.\n\n\nConclusion\nThese findings contribute to our understanding of the impact of the pandemic on family functioning during the critical life stage of emerging adulthood.\n\n\nImplications\nFamily and mental health professionals are encouraged to invite discussion of extended family with emerging adults to resolve conflict and strengthen bonds.\n\n"]
    March 29, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70144   open full text
  • Parenting across borders: Experiences of Black English‐speaking Caribbean parents abroad.
    Charlene Harris, Lisa Dunkley, Helyne Frederick.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 27, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nThis study explores the parenting experiences of transnational parents from three English‐speaking Caribbean countries: Grenada, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago.\n\n\nBackground\nWhile transnational parenting has been well studied in other contexts, research on Caribbean parents remains limited, underscoring the need for further exploration into the experiences of these families.\n\n\nMethod\nTen parents (six mothers and four fathers) participated in the study; all of whom self‐identified as immigrants from the Black English‐speaking Caribbean. Participants had migrated to the United States or Canada, leaving one or more children behind in their home country. Parents were recruited via word of mouth and publicly accessible Caribbean community groups on social media. Semistructured interviews were video‐recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed.\n\n\nResults\nWe derived six themes: (a) reliance on family caregivers, (b) communication and connection, (c) commitment to education, (d) financial support and resource management, (e) emotional distress, and (f) joint parenting roles and family conflicts.\n\n\nConclusion\nThese findings highlight the emotional, financial, and family relationship stressors faced by Caribbean transnational mothers and fathers, as well as their resilience and adaptive strategies in long‐distance parenting.\n\n\nImplications\nThe study underscores the need for support systems to strengthen parent–child relationships, improve financial transparency, and assist families in managing transnational caregiving dynamics. These insights are particularly valuable for family scholars and practitioners working with Caribbean families, informing strategies to better support transnational parenting dynamics.\n\n"]
    March 27, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70171   open full text
  • Influence of mobility and work–family conflict on U.S. military spouse employment.
    Kelly A. Woodall, Claire A. Kolaja, Hope M. McMaster, Rudolph P. Rull, Andrew Furne, Nicholas J. Armstrong, Valerie A. Stander, the Millennium Cohort Family Study Team, Rani Duff, Anna Garner, Danielle Hunt, Dana Maglic, Sharmini Radakrishnan, Isabel Altarejos, Lauren Bauer, Sarah Carinio, Alex Esquivel, Travis Ray, Sabrina Richardson, Karen Tannenbaum.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 26, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nThis study longitudinally assessed how mobility across geographic regions and work–family conflict influenced spouse employment trajectories and perceptions of career hindrance.\n\n\nBackground\nThe unemployment rate for U.S. military spouses has remained 21% since 2015 with specific aspects of military life, such as moving, reported as negatively influencing their careers.\n\n\nMethods\nSurvey data were used for multivariable regression models examining employment trajectories between baseline and follow‐up (N = 3,149) and perceptions of career hindrance at follow‐up (N = 2,766). Employment trajectories were categorized as follows: consistent, newly employed, and newly unemployed. Career hindrance was assessed continuously.\n\n\nResults\nSpouses who moved across geographic regions were more likely to be newly unemployed and less likely to be newly employed at follow‐up than to have consistent employment. Greater career hindrance was reported at follow‐up by spouses who moved across regions and experienced increased work–family conflict.\n\n\nConclusion\nFindings suggest mobility was highly predictive of spouses becoming newly unemployed and reporting higher rates of career hindrance. Spouses' reports of increased military‐related work–family conflict also resulted in increased career hindrance.\n\n\nImplications\nPrograms are available to assist military spouses with career development; however, employers should consider ways to help spouses maintain employment after military moves.\n\n"]
    March 26, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70181   open full text
  • Expected Upward Mobility and Fertility Intentions: Evidence from China.
    Chi Zhang, Longxuan Lin, Li Wang, Pengfei Qu.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 26, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nThis study examines how subjective expectations of upward class mobility influence fertility intentions in China and investigates the underlying mechanisms and heterogeneity of this effect.\n\n\nBackground\nIn the context of China's persistently low fertility rates, understanding sociopsychological factors beyond policy is crucial. This study shifts the focus from actual social mobility to the role of subjective mobility expectations—individuals' beliefs about their future socioeconomic status—in shaping fertility decisions.\n\n\nMethod\nUsing 2021 China General Social Survey (CGSS2021) data, an ordered probit model was employed to analyze the relationship. Robustness checks and the Karlson–Holm–Breen method for mediation analysis are conducted. Heterogeneity is examined across regions, residence types, and individual demographics.\n\n\nResults\nUpward class mobility expectations significantly increase fertility intentions, particularly for having multiple children. This effect is mediated by enhanced social trust, increased investment behavior, and greater happiness. The impact is stronger in eastern/central regions and among urban residents and is more pronounced for highly educated individuals, males, and those working outside the public sector.\n\n\nConclusions\nOptimistic expectations of upward mobility are a significant positive predictor of fertility intentions, operating through improved psychosocial and economic outlooks. The effect varies substantially across different societal groups.\n\n\nImplications\nPolicy should focus on creating credible pathways for upward mobility, such as strengthening education and lifelong learning, to boost fertility intentions. Support policies should target non–public sector employees, and regional development strategies should aim to reduce disparities in mobility opportunities.\n\n"]
    March 26, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70175   open full text
  • Caregiving, maternal burnout, and child dysregulation: Validating the Italian Caregiving Experiences Questionnaire.
    Jacopo Tracchegiani, Andrea Zagaria, Laura E. Brumariu, Nicola Carone.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 24, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis research validated the Italian version of the 40‐item Caregiving Experiences Questionnaire (CEQ) by examining its factor structure and associations with maternal burnout and child dysregulation.\n\n\nBackground\nCaregiving representations shape parental behavior and influence child development. Existing measures are resource intensive, limiting accessibility. The CEQ offers a practical self‐report alternative, but its validation remains limited.\n\n\nMethod\nTwo studies involved independent samples of Italian cisgender, heterosexual, biological mothers. Study 1 assessed the CEQ's factor structure, reliability, and measurement invariance across child gender, developmental stage, and maternal education (N = 891; Mage = 41.48, SD = 6.76). Study 2 used structural equation modeling to assess relations among caregiving, maternal burnout, and child dysregulation among 743 mothers (M = 42.31 years, SD = 6.64) of children mean aged 8.76 (SD = 4.99).\n\n\nResults\nA four‐factor, 29‐item model (Enjoyment, Helplessness, Heightened Caregiving, Role Reversal) showed strong psychometric properties and invariance across subgroups. Maternal burnout mediated the relations between enjoyment, heightened caregiving, and role reversal and child dysregulation. Helplessness exerted a direct effect.\n\n\nConclusion\nThe Italian CEQ is a valid and reliable tool for assessing maternal caregiving, relevant across developmental and demographic contexts.\n\n\nImplications\nInterventions targeting maternal caregiving and burnout may reduce child dysregulation.\n\n"]
    March 24, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70141   open full text
  • Being there for mom: The strengths of daughtering.
    Allison M. Alford, Kaitlin E. Phillips, Luke V. Stipanovic, Cayd A. Rocha‐Barnette, Michelle Miller‐Day.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 24, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nDaughters undertake daughtering, or the everyday role portrayal of contributing to a meaningful family relationship with their mothers, but the labor of it is often invisible.\n\n\nBackground\nUsing a strengths‐based approach, we investigated what daughters do well in their relationships with mothers.\n\n\nMethod\nWe analyzed the responses of 1,444 women to the open‐ended question, “What do you do well as a daughter?” to learn more about how women describe their daughtering. Utilizing the artificial intelligence of a large language model for data analysis, we supplied definitions and descriptions of 12 virtues and strengths from existing literature and created a codebook to train the model.\n\n\nResults\nWe organized the core findings into four primary themes: beyond‐the‐self orientation, mattering, interpersonal generosity, and a partnering of both coherence and purpose.\n\n\nConclusion\nTaken as a whole, these results illustrate core strengths involved in daughtering mothers in adulthood and reflect the need for additional research that centers positive communication practices.\n\n\nImplications\nRecognizing the many ways that women enact daughtering across cultures can guide community and policy initiatives that prioritize care acts and relational labor as vital to families and societies.\n\n"]
    March 24, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70122   open full text
  • A qualitative analysis of an empowerment‐based group work with widowed older adults.
    Ecem Naz Nazlıer Mayda, Yasemin Özkan.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 19, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study aimed to examine the effect of empowerment‐based group work (EBGW) on the empowerment of widowed older adults, with the objective of fostering empowerment at personal, interpersonal, and structural levels throughout the grieving process.\n\n\nBackground\nThe loss of a spouse, a widespread and significant crisis, constitutes a multifaceted experience that profoundly impacts individuals in biopsychosocial terms.\n\n\nMethod\nAdopting a phenomenological approach, the study sought to understand the grief experiences and empowerment trajectories of older adults through their personal narratives. In this context, nine participants who had experienced the loss of a spouse no more than 1 year ago were included in the study. Data were analyzed using reflective thematic analysis.\n\n\nResults\nThe analysis yielded three principal themes: (a) participants' personal empowerment journey, (b) postloss reconstruction of relationships and social support, and (c) struggling to reclaim one's place in society. The findings indicate that participants experienced empowerment across personal, interpersonal, and structural domains.\n\n\nConclusion\nIt is concluded by participants that EBGW was perceived to be a useful and effective intervention.\n\n\nImplications\nThis study stands as one of the pioneering efforts to examine the effects of EBGW for widowed older adults, offering a unique quasiexperimental contribution to the fields of social work and grief studies.\n\n"]
    March 19, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70130   open full text
  • Generational self‐perception and stereotypes: A study of Generations X–parents and Z–children.
    Anna Wołpiuk‐Ochocińska, Grzegorz Polański.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 18, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nBased on generational theory and social identity theory, this study analyzed the presence of generational autostereotypes (self‐assessment in the context of group identity) and heterostereotypes (perceptions of the second generation) among adults from Generation X (middle adulthood) and their children, who are from Generation Z (early adulthood).\n\n\nBackground\nMedia information and scholarly works on generations reveal generational stereotypes related to professional work. Our study reveals the beliefs of parents and their children regarding the personality traits of representatives of both generations.\n\n\nMethod\nParticipants from southeastern Poland (N = 197; 111 = Generation X, 86 = Generation Z) completed the Adjective Check List (ACL; Gough & Heilbrun, 2012), describing themselves and members of their own and other generational groups.\n\n\nResults\nThe results indicate that the self‐perception of Generation X representatives was similar to the generational image at the within‐group level. However, the self‐descriptions of Generation Z participants clearly differed from the collective representation of their own generation, which was similar to the heterostereotype created by Generation X, especially in the areas of aggression (d = −1.499), autonomy (d = −1.21), exposure (d = −1.31), and in the dimension of caring (d = 1.58).\n\n\nConclusions\nThis study contributes to a deeper understanding of the dynamics of intergroup cognition and the mechanisms of the formation and content of generational stereotypes.\n\n\nImplications\nThe implications of the study, addressed to various social groups, are presented, primarily concerning the activation of generational stereotypes due to the presence of generational labels.\n\n"]
    March 18, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70127   open full text
  • Measuring bias against childfree women: The development of the BAC‐W Scale.
    Gabriel L. Schlomer, Yookyeong Park, Kimberly F. Colvin, Panpan Yang.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 18, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study describes the development of the Bias Against Childfree Women (BAC‐W) scale.\n\n\nBackground\nPrevious work on childfree women has relied largely on qualitative assessments and vignette methods, limiting broader empirical inquiry. A validated survey‐based measure is needed to expand methodological tools and deepen understanding of bias toward childfree women.\n\n\nMethods\nParticipants were 603 nationally representative U.S. adults (51% women; 64% White, 12% Black, 10% mixed race, 14% Asian/other; 73% employed). An initial pool of 51 items was evaluated using factor analysis and item response theory, with validity testing conducted following item refinement.\n\n\nResults\nLong‐ (20 items) and short‐form (five items) versions of the scale were developed that showed sound reliability. Validity tests showed expected differences across gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, and marital, employment, and child status. Higher bias was also associated with religiosity, conservatism, and sexism.\n\n\nConclusion\nThe BAC‐W long and short forms are reliable and valid measures of bias against childfree women that address recent calls for expanding the methodological tools in this area of study.\n\n\nImplications\nThese tools can inform researchers, policymakers, educators, and community leaders seeking to identify, monitor, and reduce bias toward childfree women.\n\n"]
    March 18, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70126   open full text
  • Development and Validation of the Cognitive Bandwidth Inventory for Dual‐Career Couples.
    Aqsa Abdul Khaliq, Samar Fahad.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 18, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study aims to develop and validate an inventory of cognitive bandwidth for dual‐career couples, which seeks to measure cognitive resource allocation and its subsequent effects on work‐family integration among dual‐career families in Pakistan.\n\n\nBackground\nCognitive overload is prevalent among dual‐career couples as they juggle their professional commitments and personal lives. Existing literature has documented the work–family conflict; however, the comprehensive tools that capture cognitive processes for various demands are lacking.\n\n\nMethod\nThe approach consisted of focus groups and interviews with 50 dual‐career couples to develop an initial 80 items. Once data were collected from 200 participants, Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) were performed on the data, resulting in a 29‐item scale.\n\n\nResults\nThe scale comprises Efficient Use of Cognitive Resources, Focus and Memory Retention, Management Ability and Decision‐Making Efficiency, Mental Flexibility, and Task Transitions. The scale exhibits high internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.82–0.91) and a good model fit (SRMR = 0.053), indicating a good global fit of the model.\n\n\nConclusion\nWith the completion of this study, the CB–DCC can now provide a reliable and valid measure of cognitive bandwidth in dual‐career couples, thereby highlighting the resources available to manage overload.\n\n\nImplications\nThe instrument has the potential to shape the formulation of policies concerning work‐life balance, including flexible working hours and family leave. It also aids counselors in assisting couples to manage cognitive load for effective integration of work and family. Its use in various sociocultural settings and in longitudinal studies requires further examination.\n\n"]
    March 18, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70210   open full text
  • Perceived childhood relationships and their associations with assertiveness, trait anxiety, and early maladaptive schemas.
    Irina Mrvoljak‐Theodoropoulou.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 16, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study examined associations between perceived childhood relationships, assertiveness, trait anxiety, and early maladaptive schemas (EMS) in Greek adults.\n\n\nBackground\nEarly relationships with family and peers are central to adult emotional and social development. EMS are deep cognitive–emotional structures rooted in unmet emotional needs, linking childhood interactions to adult psychological functioning.\n\n\nMethod\nA sample of 1,025 adults completed the Rathus Assertiveness Schedule, the trait anxiety subscale of the State–Trait Anxiety Inventory, and the Young Schema Questionnaire–Short Form 3. Participants retrospectively rated childhood family relationships and the number of close friendships. Associations among these variables were examined.\n\n\nResults\nSupportive childhood family relationships were associated with lower trait anxiety and fewer EMS. Having more childhood friendships was linked to higher assertiveness, lower anxiety, and reduced levels of specific EMS. Age correlated positively with assertiveness and negatively with trait anxiety and EMS. Men reported slightly higher assertiveness and endorsed EMS (e.g., abandonment/instability, social isolation/alienation) more than women, who reported higher self‐sacrifice.\n\n\nConclusion\nThe findings indicate a potential link between childhood social environments and long‐term psychological development.\n\n\nImplications\nInterventions could foster supportive family dynamics and early social skills; schema‐focused therapy and assertiveness training may help adults modify EMS rooted in early relational patterns.\n\n"]
    March 16, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70121   open full text
  • Enhancing the sociocultural adaptation of Syrian migrant women: The effects of family support program.
    Gülden Altın Yöntem, İmran Çağlayan, Pınar Bağçeli Kahraman, Meral Taner Derman, Gönül Onur Sezer, Elvan Şahin Zeteroğlu, Muhammed Muzaffer Özhan, Handan Asûde Başal.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 1432-1452, April 2026. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nThis study examined the effects of a family support program on the sociocultural adaptation processes of Syrian migrant women living under temporary protection in Türkiye.\n\n\nBackground\nMigration presents significant challenges, particularly for women balancing family responsibilities while adapting to new cultural contexts. Family support programs effectively enhance migrant integration by addressing challenges related to communication, social participation, and access to local resources. Limited research has examined how such programs affect the sociocultural adaptation of migrants, however.\n\n\nMethod\nThis study used a convergent mixed‐methods design. Quantitative data were gathered using the Sociocultural Adaptation Scale, and qualitative data were obtained through interviews, including 15 focus group interviews and five individual interviews. The sample consisted of 117 women, with 59 assigned to the experimental group and 58 to the control group. The experimental group participated in a 10‐week family support program, while the control group did not receive any intervention.\n\n\nResults\nThe program significantly improved participants' sociocultural adaptation, with notable progress in interpersonal communication, personal interests, and ecological adaptation. Quantitative results showed no significant improvements in academic/work performance or language proficiency, however. Qualitative data highlighted enhanced family and social communication, increased self‐confidence and autonomy, improved daily life management, and a greater sense of social acceptance.\n\n\nConclusion\nThe program played a crucial role in improving women's sociocultural adaptation by fostering communication, personal growth, and better access to community services. Challenges related to language and employment remained, however, indicating a need for targeted interventions in these areas.\n\n\nImplications\nFamily support programs enhance migrant women's sociocultural adaptation. Expanded programs focusing on language and employment could improve outcomes further.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70108   open full text
  • Couples counseling in digital society: The case of modern China.
    Wei Zhang, Xiang Hu, Keying Xiong, Liliia Pankratova, Chengyan Zhu.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 1544-1565, April 2026. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nWe examined Chinese married individuals' perceptions and utilization of online couples counseling service (OCCS), the factors influencing their utilization, and their expectations for the service.\n\n\nBackground\nIn recent years, the divorce rate in China has been increasing, and traditional approaches to resolving marital conflicts have gradually become less applicable in the current social context, especially during periods of transformations in gender order. OCCS is a possible approach to solve couple problems and promote marital harmony in a digital society, but it is still in the process of development in China.\n\n\nMethod\nSemistructured interviews were conducted with 30 Chinese married individuals from August to October 2023, and thematic analysis was used to analyze the data.\n\n\nResults\nWe identified a total of three themes and 14 subthemes. The three themes included (a) perceptions of OCCS, (b) factors influencing the use of OCCS, and (c) future expectations of OCCS.\n\n\nConclusion\nParticipants demonstrated a general awareness of OCCS, though most had not yet utilized such services. Seven factors were identified as influencing their utilization of the service. Additionally, AI‐based OCCS were perceived to attract attention and increase their willingness to utilize the service.\n\n\nImplications\nThe future development of OCCS should not only focus on service quality but also address users' concerns. This study also provides references for other East Asian countries with similar cultural foundations.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70146   open full text
  • Legitimacy of parental authority in emerging adulthood: Effects of support, demands, and psychological control.
    Carlos Mellado.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 921-937, April 2026. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThe present study aimed to relate parental support, demand, and psychological control with heterogeneity in beliefs about the legitimacy of parental authority during emerging adulthood.\n\n\nBackground\nPrevious research has established a relationship between parental styles and the beliefs about the legitimacy of parental authority in adolescents, which varies according to the domains defined by the social‐cognitive domain theory. However, it is unknown if this relationship is maintained in emerging adulthood.\n\n\nMethod\nA total of 2,745 Chilean young people aged 18 to 30 years were surveyed. Through a latent class analysis, types of young people with heterogeneous beliefs of parental legitimacy were identified.\n\n\nResults\nThree distinct groups emerged: a group that legitimized parental authority for all issues consulted (i.e., personal, prudential, and multifaceted), a group that legitimized authority only for prudential issues, and a group that denied parental legitimacy for all issues. Furthermore, a multinomial regression showed that the probability of young people belonging to the different classes was related to parental demand and support and was independent of psychological control.\n\n\nConclusion\nThis result provides a better understanding of the role of parenting in the legitimacy that young people give to parental regulations during this stage.\n\n\nImplications\nThe results indicate that parent–child bonds in emerging adulthood allow young people to gradually acquire autonomy and shape their identity during this stage while maintaining healthy interactions with their parents.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70138   open full text
  • Dyadic resistance during parent–adolescent interactions: A state space grid analysis before and after high school.
    Daniel Ji, Frances Cabahug, Sheila K. Marshall.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 901-920, April 2026. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nThis study examined micro‐level resistance dynamics that occur during parent–adolescent interactions before and after the transition to high school.\n\n\nBackground\nAlthough research on parent–adolescent disputes has emphasized global measures of frequency and intensity, less attention has been paid to the actions of resistance during parent–adolescent interactions. This study fills a gap in what is known about parent–adolescent resistance dynamics.\n\n\nMethods\nA state space grid approach informed by dynamic systems and family conflict theories was conducted on two videorecorded conversations in a sample of 26 Canadian parent–adolescent dyads. Flexibility, attractor, and intergrid distance analyses assessed intradyadic variability in how parents and adolescents resisted one another moment to moment.\n\n\nResults\nAttractor analysis revealed that the most probable state during resistance sequences shifted: Before high school it was the Parent Justifying–Adolescent Justifying cell, after it was the Parent Minimizing–Adolescent Rejecting cell. t‐test results of intergrid distance scores showed a significant difference in the positioning of resistance sequences after high school.\n\n\nConclusion\nResults offer evidence that dyadic resistance differs before and after significant family transitions like the move to high school.\n\n\nImplications\nFuture research on dyadic resistance microprocesses could examine whether the proposed conceptual categories could be applied to dyads across multiple areas of difference to scrutinize its utility for a range of cultural and caregiver relationships.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70137   open full text
  • What predicts improvements from home visits: Implementation fidelity or family enjoyment?
    Sarah M. Braaten, Robert L. Nix, Lori A. Francis, Mark E. Feinberg, Michelle L. Hostetler, Sukhdeep Gill, Cynthia A. Stifter.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 1472-1489, April 2026. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study examined how implementation fidelity to Recipe 4 Success, a preventive intervention embedded within home visits, was related to family enjoyment of those home visits and how both implementation fidelity and enjoyment were related to improvements in parents' sensitive scaffolding and toddlers' self‐regulation.\n\n\nBackground\nImplementation fidelity to evidence‐based interventions is necessary for achieving intended benefits. However, home visitors may relax fidelity standards to ensure families are enjoying home visits.\n\n\nMethod\nThis study included 123 racially and ethnically diverse parents and their toddlers, most of whom were living in poverty. This study relied on a multimethod, multi‐informant assessment battery that included audio recordings of home visits.\n\n\nResults\nThis study found that (a) implementation fidelity and family enjoyment can complement one another (r = .22, p < .03), (b) both are related to improvements in multiple aspects of parents' sensitive scaffolding (but not toddlers' self‐regulation), and (c) when the effects of implementation fidelity and family enjoyment were considered together, implementation fidelity was more likely to have unique benefits.\n\n\nConclusion\nImplementation fidelity is related to more, not less, family enjoyment, and implementation fidelity is especially likely to contribute to improvements from home visits.\n\n\nImplications\nThis study suggests that implementation fidelity can enhance families' experiences with and gains from evidence‐based interventions.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70135   open full text
  • “When home is gone”: Challenges faced by families evacuated from war zones—a qualitative study.
    Inbar Levkovich, Shoval Rivka Cohen Hadad.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 1514-1528, April 2026. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nThis qualitative study examined how forced evacuation during a national crisis disrupts parenting among families with adolescents.\n\n\nBackground\nParenting under displacement creates unique challenges, especially when caregivers face trauma, fear, and uncertainty. Guided by the theory of emotional availability, the study highlights how evacuation strains parents' ability to remain emotionally present and supportive.\n\n\nMethods\nThe study included 18 parents (12 mothers, six fathers) of 38 adolescents aged 12 to 18 years who were evacuated during a large‐scale emergency. Semistructured interviews were thematically analyzed. Parents represented diverse family contexts, offering perspectives from both mothers and fathers.\n\n\nResults\nEvacuation triggered fear, helplessness, and emotional disorientation. Some parents described dissociation, while others adopted practical strategies to protect and comfort their children. Maintaining parental functioning in temporary housing was difficult due to lack of privacy, strained family dynamics, and uncertainty. Adolescents showed stress reactions, withdrawal, anxiety, and regression that further taxed parents' resources. School experiences varied: Some families faced disruption, while others emphasized the stabilizing role of supportive educators.\n\n\nConclusion\nEvacuation undermines parental emotional availability and boundary‐setting during crisis.\n\n\nImplications\nThe findings underscore the need for coordinated psychosocial, educational, and emergency support systems to meet the complex needs of displaced families and adolescents.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70134   open full text
  • Parental after‐hours telework and adolescent psychological adjustment: Insights from adolescents' perspective.
    Christopher Rodrigue, Wendy Nilsen, Jacinthe Dion.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 886-900, April 2026. ", "\nAbstract\n\nBackground and Objective\nAdvances in information and communication technologies offer increased flexibility for employed parents but also blur work–family boundaries. Research is needed to understand how flexible working arrangements, such as after‐hours telework, may affect relationships and well‐being within the family. This study thus examined associations between adolescents' perceptions of parental after‐hours telework and psychological adjustment, focusing on the mediating role of parental support and technoference.\n\n\nMethods\nParticipants were 381 adolescents (46.5% girls; 78.1% identified as Québécois) aged 15 to 18 years, who completed a survey about parental after‐hours telework, parental support, family technoference, and psychological adjustment (i.e., self‐esteem, life satisfaction, externalizing and internalizing symptoms). Structural equation modeling was used to test hypothesized associations, with path analyses assessing mediating roles of support and technoference for mothers and fathers separately.\n\n\nResults\nPaternal after‐hours telework was associated with lower adolescent self‐esteem and life satisfaction, and higher levels of externalized and internalized symptoms. Maternal after‐hours telework was associated only with increased externalized symptoms. Path analyses indicated that lower paternal support and higher maternal technoference partially mediated these associations.\n\n\nConclusion\nFindings reveal distinct patterns linking maternal and paternal after‐hours telework to adolescents' psychological adjustment, highlighting the mediating influence of reduced parental support and increased technoference.\n\n\nImplications\nThe findings point to the need for increased parental and organizational awareness of the potential spillover effects of after‐hours telework on family dynamics and adolescent's well‐being, as flexible work arrangements become more prevalent.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70133   open full text
  • Children's voices on parental visits in long‐term foster care.
    Céline Cannaert, Lieselot De Wilde.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 865-885, April 2026. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study explores how children experience and navigate parental visits in long‐term foster care.\n\n\nBackground\nParental visits are central to shared parenthood in foster care, yet little research has examined how children interpret and engage with these visits. Understanding their perspectives is essential for shaping visitation policies that support their well‐being.\n\n\nMethod\nThis longitudinal qualitative study followed 14 children (aged 6–16) in long‐term foster care over 18 to 24 months through three rounds of in‐depth interviews, including dyadic interviews with their foster care workers. It examines how children assign meaning to visits, what opportunities they have to shape these experiences, and the limitations they encounter.\n\n\nResults\nMeaningful visits involve interactions that align with children's interests and their parents' circumstances. Children navigate visits using active and passive strategies, expressing emotions, adapting behaviors, or selectively sharing information. Their experiences evolve over time, shaped by personal interests, changing family dynamics, and institutional visitation structures.\n\n\nConclusion\nWhile children exercise agency during and outside visits, institutional structures often constrain their ability to shape these experiences. Recognizing these dynamics is crucial for fostering meaningful connections and enhancing visitation practices.\n\n\nImplications\nFindings suggest that visitation policies should involve children in negotiating visits, especially in voluntary placements, and support foster care workers to act flexibly with sensitive responsiveness to children's needs and capacities. Such policy‐driven flexibility can enhance children's agency and meaningful participation in visits, while accommodating their personal interests, relational dynamics, and institutional constraints.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70132   open full text
  • Effects of experiential avoidance and family emotional support on the parental psychological flexibility of mothers of preschoolers.
    Bingkun Zhang, Claire F. Garandeau, Oskari Lahtinen.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 1392-1408, April 2026. ", "\nAbstract\n\nBackground\nThis study examined the main and interactive effects of experiential avoidance and emotional support from families of origin and in‐laws on the parental psychological flexibility (PPF) of mothers of preschoolers. PPF is a key component of parenting quality and is closely linked to child development. Although experiential avoidance has been identified as a psychological factor, few studies have examined the role of family emotional support, and none have distinguished between support from family of origin and in‐laws.\n\n\nMethod\nThis study used self‐reported data from 335 Chinese mothers of preschoolers and hierarchical regression analyses.\n\n\nResults\nHigher experiential avoidance was associated with lower PPF. Emotional support from family of origin was positively associated with PPF, whereas support from in‐laws was negatively associated with it. A significant interaction showed that among mothers with high experiential avoidance, greater support from in‐laws was related to lower PPF.\n\n\nConclusion\nThis study provides a comprehensive examination of factors—both psychological and environmental—related to PPF. It highlights the complexity of family support systems by showing that support from family of origin may be beneficial, but support from in‐laws may not.\n\n\nImplications\nInterventions to enhance PPF should address both individual psychological factors and the source of family support.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70118   open full text
  • Bisexual identity, stress, and romantic relationships.
    Chandler Fairbanks.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 1294-1311, April 2026. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nThis study examines the association between sexual minority identities, stress, and three dimensions of romantic relationships: satisfaction, conflict, and instability.\n\n\nBackground\nA majority of research on sexual minorities focuses on differences between same‐sex and different‐sex couples. Sex composition is not the same as sexual identity, however. Within same‐sex or different‐sex couples, there are heterogeneous sexual identities. Their potentially unique associations with stress and relationship well‐being remain overlooked.\n\n\nMethod\nThis study analyzes a sample of 3,061 respondents from the National Couples' Health and Time Study, a quantitative dataset of U.S. residents that oversampled individuals with sexual minority identities. The associations between sexual minority identity, stress, and self‐reports of relationship outcomes were determined using a series of nested ordinary least squares regression models.\n\n\nResults\nResults show that sexual minorities as a whole report worse relationship outcomes than their heterosexual peers but that this finding is driven by those with a bisexual identity. Further, stress fully mediates the association between bisexual identity and reports of lower relationship satisfaction and greater conflict. Stress only partially explains the greater levels of relationship instability reported by those who identify as bisexual.\n\n\nConclusion\nThe findings from this study illustrate heterogeneity among sexual minorities and indicate that individuals who identify as bisexual experience increased relationship instability compared with those who identify as heterosexual and those who identify as gay or lesbian.\n\n\nImplications\nFindings implicate the need for additional resources to support individuals who identify as bisexual and their romantic partners.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70116   open full text
  • “Treading on eggshells”: Communication between mothers and children in out‐of‐home care.
    Stephanie Richardson, Nneamaka Ekebuisi.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 997-1019, April 2026. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study explores how communication between parents and children was experienced by adults who were placed in out‐of‐home care (OOHC) when they were children, and mothers who had a child in OOHC. The mothers were not related to the adult children.\n\n\nBackground\nThe quality and process of contact shapes experiences for young people in OOHC and mothers of children in OOHC. Research has primarily focused on young people's outcomes, with studies on mothers of children in OOHC only beginning to emerge, highlighting the need for a systemic lens that considers both perspectives.\n\n\nMethods\nFive mothers with a child in OOHC were interviewed. Six adults who were in OOHC as children, unrelated to the mothers, were also interviewed. The interviews were analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis.\n\n\nResults/Findings\nThe mothers and adults placed in OOHC as children often sought to connect with their children or parents, respectively. However, their past traumas and the setup of contact processes significantly disrupted communication. Participants' communication evolved over time as they renegotiated their relationship.\n\n\nConclusion\nAs they developed an understanding of their past experiences of lack of care, the way the mothers and adult children communicated with their child or parent, respectively, evolved. The distance imposed in contact was often described as protective by the adult children and harmful by the mothers.\n\n\nImplications\nPractitioners should consider attachment, developmental stage and the changing life situations of both birth parents and young people with OOHC experiences to make sense of their interacting hopes for communication.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70160   open full text
  • Validation of the Chinese Family Strength Measure (CFSM) Among Hong Kong Families with Young Children.
    Shiying Fang, Ya‐ting Teng, Kurt Nan, Chi Hung Leung.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 1220-1240, April 2026. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study aimed to examine the psychometric properties of the Chinese Family Strength Measure (CFSM) in families with young children in Hong Kong, and compare the levels of family strengths of families with different socioeconomic statuses.\n\n\nBackground\nSix types of family strengths have been proposed to shape a strong family in China, while little is known about whether the six types of family strengths play important roles in families with young children. Meanwhile, whether the levels of family strengths vary with the socioeconomic status of Chinese families remains unknown.\n\n\nMethod\n749 families with young children in Hong Kong completed the survey. Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were conducted to examine the psychometric properties of CFSM. One‐way ANOVA was used to compare the levels of family strengths among different socioeconomic groups.\n\n\nResults\nresults showed that the CFSM with the original factor structure still fitted the data best. Moreover, there was a significant relationship between socioeconomic status and the level of enjoyable time together.\n\n\nConclusion\nAppreciation, commitment, enjoyment, communication, resilience, and spirituality play important roles in maintaining strong family bonds. The financial situation has a significant impact on family functioning, especially in family time and entertainment.\n\n\nImplications\nThis study provides insights into how to build strong families in the Chinese context.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70100   open full text
  • Never Been In A Romantic Relationship: Singleness and Romantic Relationship Participation in Emerging Adults.
    Leah E. LeFebvre, Heather A. Love.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 1273-1293, April 2026. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis multi‐method study explores singleness in emerging adults, including reasons for never being involved in romantic relationships.\n\n\nBackground\nComparative experiences provide insight into developmental processes for emerging adults with prior romantic relationship histories (PRRs) and those who have never been in a romantic relationship (NRRs).\n\n\nMethods\nWe recruited a convenience sample of United States collegiate students (N = 369) to complete a Qualtrics survey about their romantic relationship history and experiences. We used a concurrent mixed methods design with inferential statistics to examine differences between perceptions of relationships followed by qualitative approaches (n = 37) to explore motivations for NRRs.\n\n\nResults\nNRRs reported lower relationship readiness and lower levels of dating, romantic, and sexual experiences compared to peers and their own ideals. However, NRRs were more likely to report belief in greater dating prospects in the future. These findings were further explored in qualitative responses: apprehension, social contexts, and efficacy were the primary themes developed to explain reasons for remaining single in this life stage.\n\n\nConclusion\nOverall, lack of relationship engagement did not appear to influence a belief that singleness would be indefinite.\n\n\nImplications\nParticipants did not significantly differ in fears of being single, implying singleness is a choice and one that is not necessarily related to negative outcomes.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70090   open full text
  • “Do we not matter?!”: A qualitative exploration of vicarious racism stress in married Black Americans.
    Tia M. Dickerson.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 1137-1157, April 2026. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study employed the marriage advantage framework to understand whether social support from spouses buffered the effects of vicarious racism on the mental health of married Blacks during the COVID‐19 pandemic.\n\n\nBackground\nScholarship has underscored that interpersonal experiences with racism can lead to a plethora of negative mental health outcomes. However, the relationship between vicarious racism, or secondhand experiences of racism, and its attendant consequences to mental health remains understudied. Specifically, empirical work examining social factors, such as marital status, that may attenuate negative outcomes following exposure is scarce.\n\n\nMethod\nQualitative interviews of 16 married Black individuals were conducted to understand the impact of spousal support on the effects of vicarious racism. A combination of social media advertising and snowball sampling was used to recruit study participants.\n\n\nResults\nFindings suggest that vicarious racism is detrimental to the mental health of Black people. However, Black spouses were an important source of social support when managing the emotional toll of vicarious racism.\n\n\nConclusion\nParticipants' spouses provided a space to express emotional distress and aided in positive coping through emotion regulation and joint activism.\n\n\nImplications\nFamily‐based interventions targeting experiences with vicarious racism are needed to support emotion management among minority couples.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70084   open full text
  • Understanding revenge cognitions among Jewish women survivors of intimate partner violence in Canada.
    Anat Vass.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 1020-1042, April 2026. ", "\nAbstract\n\nBackground\nRevenge cognitions and behaviors are common responses following intimate partner violence (IPV) victimization, yet little is known about how survivors, particularly from religious minority communities, process these responses during recovery.\n\n\nObjective\nThis study investigated how Jewish women IPV survivors conceptualize and navigate revenge‐related responses in the aftermath of IPV.\n\n\nMethod\nUsing a descriptive phenomenological‐psychological approach, data were collected through in‐depth interviews and focus groups with 79 Jewish Canadian women (aged 24–64) who had experienced IPV.\n\n\nResults\nThematic analysis revealed three patterns: (a) First, “revenge—between thinking, planning, and acting,” capturing retaliatory cognitions; (b) second, “silence—the ultimate revenge,” demonstrating nonengagement as empowerment as a psychological coping strategy; and (c) third, “true winning has nothing to do with revenge,” highlighting transformation toward self‐focused recovery. Although revenge thoughts were acknowledged as inherent to early healing stages, findings showed these typically evolved toward constructive healing paths when supported by culturally informed approaches.\n\n\nConclusion\nFindings demonstrate that although revenge cognitions are common in early recovery from IPV, Jewish women survivors typically progress toward nonretaliatory coping strategies.\n\n\nImplications\nResults emphasize the importance of culturally informed therapeutic approaches that acknowledge and support this transformation process.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70080   open full text
  • Recovery from severe mental illness in the family: The role of intrapersonal and interpersonal differentiation.
    Netta Galmidi, Ron Shor.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 1158-1175, April 2026. ", "\nAbstract\n\nBackground\nLimited attention has been given to conceptualizing and examining what can help parents of adult children with mental illness recover from the impact of the illness on their relationship with their adult child. The concept of differentiation can serve as a means of exploring their recovery.\n\n\nObjectives\nTo examine changes in the parents' differentiation with the adult child and how differentiation occurred.\n\n\nMethod\nPersonal interviews were conducted with 10 parents who are members of an association for family members of individuals with mental illness in Israel. A thematic analysis method was used.\n\n\nResults\nAfter the onset of the mental illness, the parents experienced negative emotions and a process of mourning, and they struggled with emotional regulation. Over the years, the relationships with the adult child changed due to emotional and perceptual shifts regarding the mental illness and by learning how to adjust their interactions.\n\n\nConclusions\nThe concept of differentiation can help assess the challenges parents face and focus on intrapersonal and interpersonal change‐promoting processes in the relationship with the adult child.\n\n\nImplications\nInterventions should help parents overcome challenges after the illness begins and in developing differentiation in the relationship with the adult child to advance their recovery.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70076   open full text
  • I walk in the way of my ancestors: American Indian/Alaska Native reunification with tribe.
    Ashley L. Landers, Morgan J. Hamilton, Sandy White Hawk.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 801-825, April 2026. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThe purpose of this study was to examine the experiences of reunification with extended family and tribe for American Indian/Alaska Native relatives who were fostered and/or adopted as children, including how the reunification occurred, what reunification was like for them, and the feelings and changes associated with the experience of reunification.\n\n\nBackground\nReunification is often studied as a permanency outcome drawn from administrative child welfare data. Such studies are limited in focus on the return of a child to their caregivers(s), rather than reunifications with extended family and tribe.\n\n\nMethod\nReflexive thematic analysis was conducted on open‐ended survey data from 70 fostered and/or adopted American Indian/Alaska Native relatives from the Experiences of Adopted and Fostered Individuals Project.\n\n\nResults\nThe five themes included (a) contact leading to reunification with extended family and tribe, (b) with whom reunification with extended family and tribe occurred, (c) resurfacing grief from separation, (d) how reunification with extended family and tribe fosters healing, and (e) barriers to tribal reunification. Relatives pursued information prior to reunifying through searching, engaging in contact via technology and written communication, and returning to tribal lands and events. Reunification occurred between the fostered and/or adopted relative and their extended family and tribe. Resurfacing grief moved from frustration to mourning to acceptance. Extended family and tribal reunification fostered healing through belonging, resemblance, and place identity. Yet, some relatives encountered barriers to reunifying with extended family and tribe.\n\n\nConclusion\nThis study illuminates how grief experiences from the initial separation resurface during reunification with extended family and tribe for fostered and/or adopted American Indian/Alaska Native relatives.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70070   open full text
  • Quality time in early childhood: Eliciting young children's perspectives.
    Rachel A. McGovern.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 845-864, April 2026. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nThis study employed developmentally sensitive ethnographic techniques to elicit young children's perspectives of their quality time experiences in family contexts.\n\n\nBackground\nIntensive parenting ideology and social constructions of “good parenting” prioritize culturally defined quality time in which parents focus on cultivating children's cognitive and emotional development and improving family parent–child relations. However, young children's perspectives have been overlooked in research examining their time use, thus constraining assessment of their subjective well‐being.\n\n\nMethod\nSix children (ages 3–5 years) from five families participated in more than 80 hours of intensive family observations staggered over a 3‐month period. Data‐gathering techniques also included informal conversations, role‐play, and drawing.\n\n\nResults\nQuality time for the children frequently occurred as spontaneous moments of connection during mundane or ordinary experiences. Additionally, quality time in family contexts arose from interactions with nonparent family members, such as siblings and grandparents, and interaction with a family member was not a requirement for quality time to exist.\n\n\nConclusion\nFindings challenge predominant assumptions about what it means to be a “good” parent by providing a new perspective of quality time informed by young children's experiences.\n\n\nImplications\nReframing quality time as requiring fewer resources (i.e., time, energy, money) may reduce the pressure or guilt some parents' feel over a lack of time with their young children. Additionally, by understanding what constitutes quality time for young children, parents and caregivers, educators, and policymakers become more aware of young children's priorities and the experiences that contribute to their subjective well‐being.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70069   open full text
  • How does the mother–child relationship impact bullying victimization of adolescents? A mediation and multigroup analysis.
    Yuhang Cheng, Shan Jiang.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nBackground\nSchool bullying victimization is a pervasive issue adversely affecting adolescent well‐being. Family factors, particularly the mother–child relationship, are recognized as influential correlates, yet the underlying mechanisms linking the mother–child relationship to bullying victimization remain unclear.\n\n\nObjective\nThis study investigated the direct relationship between poor mother–child relationship and bullying victimization among Chinese adolescents and tested the mediating roles of psychological maltreatment (emotional abuse and neglect) and depression, as well as the moderating role of gender.\n\n\nMethods\nA cross‐sectional survey of 2001 adolescents (12–18 years) from one Chinese province was conducted. Participants completed validated scales. Structural equation modeling (SEM) and multigroup SEM were employed for data analyses.\n\n\nResults\nPoor mother–child relationship was directly linked to more bullying victimization. Psychological maltreatment and depression mediated this relationship both independently and sequentially. Gender differences were significant: The positive effect of poor mother–child relationship on emotional neglect was stronger for female adolescents, whereas the impact of emotional abuse on bullying victimization was significantly stronger for male adolescents.\n\n\nConclusion\nThe findings demonstrate the mechanisms linking poor mother–child relationship to bullying victimization, involving psychological maltreatment and depression as mediators, with notable gender differences.\n\n\nImplications\nInterventions should improve mother–child relationships, address parental psychological maltreatment, and support adolescent mental health, with strategies tailored for gender differences.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70169   open full text
  • Quality time in quarantine: Buffering effects of family time on COVID‐19 outcomes.
    Jens E. Jespersen, Lana O. Beasley, Salena K. Coughlan, Karina Shreffler, Lucia Ciciollia, Jennifer Hays‐Grudo, Julie Kable, Claire D. Coles, Christina D. Chambers, Ludmila Bakhireva, Lynn Singer, Julie Croff, Amanda Morris.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 1337-1355, April 2026. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study examined the impact of quality time spent with family in modifying the relationship between various negative home and social consequences of the pandemic and subsequent social and behavioral outcomes.\n\n\nBackground\nAdverse consequences related to economic, health, and social factors were brought about by the COVID‐19 pandemic. In other contexts, family protective factors and resiliency have been found to mitigate similar adverse circumstances.\n\n\nMethod\nThis mixed‐method study included participants across five states (N = 67). Quantitative methods included survey data on individual and family experiences related to work and education, home and social circumstances, and physical and emotional health. Qualitative measures included individual interviews to better understand familial experiences during the pandemic.\n\n\nResults\nRelationships between negative home life experiences and consequences of the pandemic and subsequent negative outcomes were found to be altered as levels of quality time spent with family and children increased. These results were replicated through robust qualitative data, which told the stories of families using quality time to support positive outcomes.\n\n\nConclusion\nFindings suggest that quality time spent with family can be a point of emphasis for mitigating adverse social and health outcomes.\n\n\nImplications\nQuality time may serve as a low‐cost, accessible relational strategy that can be intentionally emphasized in prevention, intervention, and public health messaging to strengthen family resilience during periods of prolonged adversity.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70093   open full text
  • Understanding child well‐being in CPS: Nativity and immigration status diversity in Latino families.
    Chien‐Jen Chiang, Maryam Rafieifar, Jun‐Hong Chen, Miyoun Yang.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 1176-1200, April 2026. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nIn this exploratory descriptive study, we examined the well‐being of Latino children involved with child protective services (CPS), focusing on differences by caregiver nativity and immigration status.\n\n\nBackground\nLatino families in CPS investigations vary in nativity and legal status, potentially shaping children's well‐being and access to services. However, limited research disaggregates Latino subgroups, restricting equitable policy development.\n\n\nMethod\nUsing data from the National Survey of Child and Adolescent Well‐Being III (NSCAW III), we analyzed a sample of 3,151 children whose caregivers were White, Black, U.S.‐born Latino, foreign‐born Latino with legal residency, or Latino caregivers without legal documentation. Standardized measures assessed depression, behavioral problems, trauma, self‐esteem, and violence exposure. Logistic regression models examined well‐being differences across racial, ethnic, and nativity subgroups.\n\n\nResults\nChildren of foreign‐born Latino caregivers, including those without legal documentation, were less likely to exhibit externalizing behavioral problems than peers with U.S.‐born Latino or White caregivers. However, they faced significantly greater exposure to violence, likely reflecting disparities at the intersection of immigration policy and the child welfare system. These findings illustrate both cultural resilience and systemic vulnerability.\n\n\nConclusion\nAlthough some Latino children showed fewer behavioral challenges, their increased exposure to violence highlights the need for trauma‐informed and culturally responsive services.\n\n\nImplications\nPolicymakers should address systemic risks linked to immigration‐related stress while building on cultural and familial strengths in Latino communities. Future research should explore how acculturation, legal context, and discrimination shape well‐being across generations.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70142   open full text
  • Marital Satisfaction and the Quality of Mother–Father–Child Triadic Interactions: A Systematic Review.
    Jessica Letot, Laurine Colin, Emmanuel Devouche, Aurélie Untas.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 1069-1083, April 2026. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nThis systematic review aimed to characterize the link between marital satisfaction and triadic interactions.\n\n\nBackground\nCurrent literature has demonstrated a link between marital satisfaction and dyadic parent–infant interactions, two concepts that are known to impact infant development. These results obtained for dyadic interactions cannot be transposed to triadic interactions.\n\n\nMethod\nA systematic review was conducted using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis) method. An electronic search was conducted in four databases for all articles published on the topic. A total of 11 articles met the inclusion criteria. The findings differ between studies; no link, a positive link, and a negative link were found between marital satisfaction and triadic interactions.\n\n\nResults\nWe discuss the adaptive and nonadaptive nature of marital satisfaction during the perinatal period. A decrease in marital satisfaction allows the parents' relationship to evolve from a couple‐centered relationship to a triadic relationship. Triadic interactions are of poorer quality when this decrease reaches a distress threshold, however.\n\n\nConclusion and Implications\nFuture studies should explore this link before the infant is 3 months old, for early prevention of the potential negative effects of low marital satisfaction or poor‐quality triadic interactions on infant development. Although more research is required on this topic to generalize the effects to the general population, identifying marital distress in couples—as early as during pregnancy—appears important to prevent its effects on their interactions with the infant.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70131   open full text
  • The impact of digital reverse mentoring on the digital integration of older adults in Macao.
    Haotian Wan, Hongyu Wang.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 1529-1543, April 2026. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study examines how digital reverse mentoring from younger generations (including social workers and adult children) promotes digital integration among older adults in Macao and tests the mediating role of self‐perceived aging and the moderating role of household internet availability.\n\n\nBackground\nAs population aging and digitalization accelerate, many older adults struggle with digital technologies, limiting participation and well‐being. Intergenerational reverse mentoring may help seniors build digital skills and improve attitudes toward aging, yet evidence in Macao remains limited.\n\n\nMethods\nData were collected from 402 adults aged 60 and older across 10 day centers. Descriptive statistics, correlation and regression analyses, and mediation and moderation models were used to assess the relationships among digital reverse mentoring, self‐perceived aging, digital integration, and home internet access.\n\n\nResults\nDigital reverse mentoring significantly improved digital integration (β = 0.416, p < .01). Self‐perceived aging significantly mediated this relationship (indirect effect = 0.301, 72.4% of total effect, p < .01). Household internet availability strengthened both the direct and indirect pathways.\n\n\nConclusion\nReverse mentoring effectively enhances digital integration among older adults, with self‐perceived aging serving as a key mechanism. Adequate home internet access further amplifies these benefits.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70125   open full text
  • (Tele)work and family conflicts in times of the COVID‐19 pandemic: Working‐age gender role challenges.
    Margarida Jarego, Pedro Alexandre Costa, Fiona Tasker, José Pais‐Ribeiro, Alexandra Ferreira‐Valente.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 1356-1375, April 2026. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nThis study examined how the COVID‐19 pandemic and associated social restrictions influenced the work–life balance of working‐age adults in terms of gender equality.\n\n\nBackground\nIncreased occupational demands during the pandemic may have disrupted the balance between work and home life. For example, mandatory teleworking during the pandemic posed additional challenges and may have caused friction between work and personal commitments, obligations that enhanced gender disparities.\n\n\nMethod\nQualitative interview data were collected from 47 working‐age adults from Portugal (aged between 30 and 61 years; 55% women) and analyzed using codebook thematic analysis.\n\n\nResults\nTwo main themes were identified: (a) work and family conflicts (i.e., participants' conflicts between their work and family dimensions and the challenge of achieving a balance) and (b) disruptions to self, family, and social relationships during lockdown (i.e., interpersonal relationships during the lockdown periods).\n\n\nConclusion\nFamilies struggled to achieve a balance between family and work, especially parents of young children, with women more impacted by the imbalance than men.\n\n\nImplications\nWe hope that this work will encourage stakeholders to consider appropriate strategies for addressing work and family conflicts. Initiatives aimed at strengthening gender equity are encouraged.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70123   open full text
  • In good days, in “disaster” days: Grounded theory of couple dynamics post‐2023 Türkiye earthquake.
    Ayşegül Bakır, Türkan Doğan.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 1490-1513, April 2026. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study investigates the post‐disaster couple dynamics after the 2023 Türkiye earthquake, integrating the lenses of survivors and couple therapists.\n\n\nBackground\nLittle is known about the romantic relationship dynamics of couples after natural disasters, despite the potential to serve as both a source and a risk factor for well‐being.\n\n\nMethod\nUsing a constructivist grounded theory, in‐depth interviews were conducted with 14 earthquake survivors (aged 22–40, M = 30.2, SD = 5.84) and eight couple therapists (aged 28–48, M = 34.76, SD = 6.45).\n\n\nResults\nOur findings reveal that shortly after the earthquake, relationship satisfaction increased, although this effect was transient. Over the subsequent 18‐month period, many couples experienced conflicts, sexual issues, violence and aggression, or relationship dissolution driven by the disaster environment and external stressors. Although participants' persistent posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms or grief contributed to these outcomes, some couples employing dyadic adjustment strategies to address the effects of earthquake trauma and additional stressors exhibited posttraumatic relational growth.\n\n\nConclusion\nShared trauma exposure can potentially strengthen relational cohesion or intensify strain in a couple's adaptation to earthquakes, contingent on the couple's resources and employed strategies.\n\n\nImplications\nTo foster relational resilience, future research and interventions should prioritize culturally sensitive psychotherapeutic approaches and policy measures in post‐disaster settings.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70114   open full text
  • From signing up to staying in: Exploring factors associated with engagement in parenting programs.
    Michelle P. Kelly, Dean Cairns, Ashlyn Smith, Khawla Barley, Andrew E. Lincoln.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 1453-1471, April 2026. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study explored individual and program factors associated with engagement in early childhood parenting programs in the United Arab Emirates.\n\n\nBackground\nParenting programs can improve caregiver well‐being, parenting skills, and child outcomes, but their success relies on effective recruitment and sustained participation. Identifying valued incentives and key program features is essential to maximize impact.\n\n\nMethod\nStakeholder focus groups informed the design of a bilingual (Arabic/English) anonymous online survey (N = 491; 87% mothers, 13% fathers). Ranked data analysis included mean rankings, pairwise comparisons, marginal frequencies, and unfolding multidimensional scaling. Chi‐square tests examined parental training preferences.\n\n\nResults\nMost respondents (85%) had never attended a parenting program but reported preferring weekend morning sessions, hybrid learning, and a 4‐week format with weekly 2‐hour sessions. Incentives were considered crucial, with parents favoring developmental and community‐focused rewards, as well as tangible child‐related benefits, typically exceeding 300 AED ($82) per session. Key engagement factors included relevant topics, clear objectives, and friendly, knowledgeable trainers.\n\n\nConclusion\nFuture research should test flexible scheduling, multiple venues, childcare services, facilitator training with supervision, hybrid learning, and tailored incentives to determine their effectiveness in improving engagement.\n\n\nImplications\nInsights into these individual and program factors can guide strategies to enhance engagement and increase the real‐world impact of parenting programs.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70109   open full text
  • Predictors of family resilience during the engagement stage: Evidence from Polish couples.
    Natalia Nadrowska, Magdalena Błażek.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 1241-1255, April 2026. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study aimed to identify key predictors of family resilience among engaged couples within a systemic family framework.\n\n\nBackground\nFamily resilience arises from a dynamic interplay of individual, relational, and contextual factors, shaping how families adapt to stress and adversity. Existing research highlights the relevance of goal orientation, coping strategies, and intergenerational influences, yet their joint impact remains underexplored in premarital relationships. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for supporting couples in the transition to long‐term partnership and family life.\n\n\nMethod\nThe study involved a convenience sample of Polish engaged couples aged 21 to 35, with engagement durations of up to three years. Participants completed four validated instruments: the Family Resilience Assessment Scale–PL, the Multidimensional Plans Questionnaire, the Brief COPE Inventory, and the Family Rating Scales. Correlational and regression analyses were conducted to identify significant predictors of family resilience.\n\n\nResults\nGoal orientation, exposure to diverse life experiences, and the use of religious coping strategies were found to significantly enhance family resilience. Additionally, open communication and satisfaction with one's family of origin emerged as crucial protective relational factors. These elements jointly explained a substantial proportion of the variance in resilience scores.\n\n\nConclusion\nResilience in engaged couples is strengthened by a combination of personal goals, adaptive coping, and positive family‐of‐origin dynamics. These factors interact to build a relational foundation capable of withstanding challenges.\n\n\nImplications\nThe findings offer valuable guidance for developing premarital programs and family interventions that foster communication, goal‐setting, and intergenerational understanding.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70106   open full text
  • The contribution of paternal involvement and appraisal of family resources to Taiwanese women's fertility outcomes.
    Chih‐Wen Wu.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 1102-1117, April 2026. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nThis study highlights the crucial role of husbands' paternal involvement in childcare in enhancing Taiwanese women's fertility outcomes.\n\n\nBackground\nTaiwan's fertility rate has been steadily declining in recent decades, and greater paternal involvement is considered a promising strategy. Drawing on the family stress management model, this study hypothesizes that women's perceptions of husbands' paternal involvement in childcare (PIC) and supportive coparenting partnership (SCP) increase the likelihood of having additional children within 3 years, with family childcare resource appraisal (FCR) as a potential mediator.\n\n\nMethods\nData were obtained from the longitudinal Kids in Taiwan project, which included 5,013 Taiwanese women who had children and remained married. Among them, 1,066 had additional children within 3 years. A series of regression and mediation analyses with bootstrapping were conducted.\n\n\nResults\nIn the full sample, both PIC and SCP significantly predicted an increased likelihood of having another child within 3 years, and these effects were mediated by women's greater appraisal of FCR. Subgroup analyses revealed, however, that these effects reached statistical significance only among women who initially had one child.\n\n\nConclusion\nThis study underscores the importance of supportive paternal involvement, which enhances women's perception of family resources and predicts fertility outcomes over time.\n\n\nImplications\nThese findings offer valuable insights for family life educators and policymakers to address Taiwan's increasingly lower fertility rate. The family stress management model serves as a theoretically generative and practically useful framework for understanding and responding to fertility decisions.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70105   open full text
  • Gaming perceptions, coplaying, and social support: A two‐study examination.
    Minel Guler, Benjamin Burke.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 1376-1391, April 2026. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nFrom a strength‐based perspective, this study investigated the associations between individuals' perceptions of the relational effects of gaming with their perceived social support. Frequency of video gaming with family members and romantic partners was examined as a mediator.\n\n\nBackground\nVideo games are a highly popular activity with implications for individual and family well‐being; however, video gaming is often examined from a deficit‐oriented perspective.\n\n\nMethod\nThe conceptual framework was tested in two distinct studies. Study 1 included 142 participants (42.3% female), whereas Study 2 included 153 participants (47.7% female).\nWe estimated a structural equation model for the hypothesized full mediation model in each study.\n\n\nResults\nThe hypothesized full mediation model was supported in Study 2 but not in Study 1. Individuals' perceptions of gaming as beneficial for relationships were significantly and indirectly associated with the perceived level of social support from their romantic partners, mediated by the frequency of gaming with romantic partners.\n\n\nConclusion\nThe findings highlight the importance of examining gaming perceptions and behaviors in relational well‐being, particularly for romantic couples.\n\n\nImplications\nThe findings suggest the benefit of integrating couples' video gaming as a shared leisure activity in relationship education programs, especially for those viewing games as relationally beneficial.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70098   open full text
  • Through good and bad times: Perceived responsiveness in Malaysian relationship quality and satisfaction.
    Priscilla M. De Netto, Elizabeth Jones, Karen J. Golden, Kia Fatt Quek, Shelly L. Gable.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 1312-1336, April 2026. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nWe investigated how perceived partner responsiveness (PPR) across three situational contexts—(a) through adversities (perceived partner support), (b) through conflicts (accommodation), and (c) through triumphs (capitalization)—relates to relationship quality (intimacy, commitment, and trust) and satisfaction among monogamous unmarried and married individuals in Malaysia.\n\n\nBackground\nPPR is a fundamental aspect of effective communication in romantic relationships. Yet existing research on PPR, capitalization, and accommodation predominantly reflects Western perspectives, offering scant insight into their dynamics within Asian contexts. This raises the question of whether PPR operates similarly in Asian cultures, a gap our study aimed to help bridge.\n\n\nMethod\nA sample of 1,851 Malaysian individuals (1,339 unmarried, 512 married) completed an online survey.\n\n\nResults\nThe hierarchical regression results indicated that perceiving partner support during stress, as well as either active or passive‐constructive responses amid conflicts and triumphs, were generally positively related to relationship quality and satisfaction. These responses operated differently between relationship groups and across relationship well‐being markers, however.\n\n\nConclusion\nOur findings demonstrate that culture matters in understanding contributors to relationship quality and satisfaction, advancing existing theories with comparative Asian data.\n\n\nImplications\nThe findings may help practitioners understand perceptions of what are considered constructive responses from a Malaysian cultural lens, benefiting both couples and their families by fostering healthier, more resilient relationships tailored to their unique dynamics and communication styles.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70149   open full text
  • New families, multiple stories: Conversational processes, origin stories, and donor‐conceived children.
    Javiera Navarro‐Marshall.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 769-782, April 2026. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nHow do families with donor‐conceived children talk about their origins with them?\n\n\nBackground\nDonor‐conceived families are challenged to disclose origins to their children. Developmental psychology has scarce evidence about how these conversations unfold. These are discourse‐dependent families; hence, how families talk about these stories is relevant for children's development.\n\n\nMethod\nNaturalistic conversations‐of‐origin stories were analyzed with a structural and pragmatic coding scheme. Participants were 22 mothers, four fathers, 11 daughters, and eight sons (all children aged 3 to 8 years), belonging to 17 donor‐conceived families from heterosexual, lesbian, and single‐mother‐by‐choice structures. All lived in Chile at the moment of research and self‐identified as of Latino ethnicity.\n\n\nResults\nOrigin stories are complex; intimate; mother led; brief in extension; coconstructed, with asymmetrical contribution (parents scaffolding); and interactive.\n\n\nConclusion\nThese results can contribute to the design of empirically based strategies to support these family conversational processes.\n\n\nImplications or recommendations\nFurther research needs to be done with bigger samples, and follow‐up studies need to be held to assess how these origin stories contribute to identity processes of donor‐conceived children.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70092   open full text
  • Redefining closeness: Family resilience after sibling loss among individuals who had siblings with disabilities.
    Minhae Cho, Ji Sun Lee, Susan Neely‐Barnes, Melissa Hirschi, Keena Gilbert, J. Holden Brimhall, Tracy Humphrey.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 1201-1219, April 2026. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nThis qualitative study examined the experiences of individuals who had lost a sibling with a disability through a family resilience framework.\n\n\nBackground\nSibling relationships in families of individuals with disabilities are complex, with siblings often assuming caregiving roles and experiencing emotional strain. Yet, there has been very little research on sibling relationships when the death of a brother or sister with a disability occurs.\n\n\nMethods\nForty‐five individuals who had lost a sibling with a disability were interviewed. Participants were predominantly from the United States (n = 38), with seven international participants from six continents. Most identified as White/European (n = 39), having lost brothers (n = 23), sisters (n = 20), or multiple siblings (n = 2).\n\n\nResults\nAnalysis revealed three primary themes: emphasizing adaptive changes, emotional coping mechanisms, and support networks. Participant narratives aligned with family resilience processes across three domains: belief systems, organizational processes, and communication and problem‐solving processes.\n\n\nConclusion\nThe findings highlight the unique dynamics of post‐loss sibling relationships in this context and demonstrate how families reconstruct their identities and relationships following such a significant loss.\n\n\nImplications or Recommendations\nPractitioners should recognize the complex grief experiences unique to losing a sibling with a disability and provide tailored support addressing adaptive changes, emotional coping needs, and support networks.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70089   open full text
  • Work–family conflict and depression among Chinese working women.
    Yihua Liu, Wenjian Xu.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 826-844, April 2026. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nBased on conservation of resources theory, this study aimed to examine the relationship between work–family conflict (WFC) and depression among Chinese working women. It also explored the mediating role of anxiety and the moderating roles of motherhood status and parenting stage.\n\n\nBackground\nWFC is a common stressor among working women. However, research on the relationship between WFC and depression among Chinese working women is limited.\n\n\nMethod\nThe study sample was derived from a nationally representative survey. A total of 3,281 Chinese working women aged 19 to 55 years were included in the study. A moderated mediation model was employed to examine the relationships among the variables.\n\n\nResults\nWFC was found to be positively associated with depression, with anxiety mediating this relationship. Additionally, motherhood status moderated the link between WFC and depression, with a weaker positive association observed among mothers than nonmothers, whereas parenting stage had no moderating effect.\n\n\nConclusion\nThe findings suggest that WFC is linked to a higher risk of depression, with anxiety potentially serving as an early warning signal. In the Chinese cultural context, motherhood status appears to function as a psychological buffer.\n\n\nImplications\nThis study supports the applicability of conservation of resources theory in explaining mental health and extends its cross‐cultural relevance. It also provides guidance for designing interventions tailored to the needs of Chinese working women.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70086   open full text
  • Asian hate during the COVID‐19 pandemic: The role of racial discrimination in Asian Americans' intimate relationships.
    Chengfei Jiao, Kayla Reed‐Fitzke.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 1118-1136, April 2026. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study examined how racial discrimination was related to Asian Americans' coping and adaptive mechanisms in intimate relationships, specifically negative conflict and perceived partner support, and how these dynamics were linked to relationship quality and risk of dissolution. It also explored whether being in an interracial relationship or having a Caucasian partner moderated these associations.\n\n\nBackground\nAsian Americans faced heightened racial discrimination during the COVID‐19 pandemic, yet its impact on relationship functioning remains understudied.\n\n\nMethods\nThe final sample consists of 325 Asian Americans from the National Couples' Health and Time Study, 59.6% identified as men, 78.5% as heterosexual, 64.9% were in interracial relationships, and 59.7% had a Caucasian partner.\n\n\nResults\nResults from a path model demonstrated that racial discrimination was associated with greater negative conflict and lower perceived partner support, which in turn were linked to lower relationship quality and higher risk of dissolution. Multigroup comparisons indicated neither interracial relationship status nor having a Caucasian partner significantly moderated these associations.\n\n\nConclusion\nRacial discrimination was indirectly associated with lower relationship quality and greater relationship risk through conflict and reduced support.\n\n\nImplications\nOur findings underscore the need for culturally sensitive interventions that address racial discrimination, reduce negative conflict, and foster partner support among Asian Americans during stressful times.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70083   open full text
  • Gender attitudes, women's intra‐household decision‐making power, and fertility intentions.
    Xiaojun Yang, Ying Yue, Jie Ma.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 783-800, April 2026. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study examined how gender attitudes and women's intra‐household decision‐making power interact to shape fertility intentions in China, focusing on the mechanisms that may mitigate the negative link between egalitarian gender attitudes and fertility intentions.\n\n\nBackground\nChina continues to face an extremely low fertility rate despite the relaxation of family planning policies. Progressive gender attitudes among women contrast with persistent traditional household roles, creating a gap between gender ideals and lived realities.\n\n\nMethod\nUsing data from the 2017 China General Social Survey, the study analyzed a sample of 669 married women of childbearing age. A four‐step hierarchical linear regression model was used to incorporate control variables, gender attitudes, decision‐making power, and their interaction.\n\n\nResults\nEgalitarian gender attitudes were significantly associated with lower fertility intentions. However, this negative relationship was weakened when women had greater decision‐making power within the household. The moderating effect was especially pronounced among urban, highly educated, employed women, as well as those who do more housework and those under 42 years old.\n\n\nConclusion\nThe study highlights that progressive gender attitudes are linked to lower fertility intentions in China. Yet, increased household empowerment can buffer this negative relationship, highlighting the importance of aligning gender ideals with everyday practices.\n\n\nImplications\nEnhancing women's decision‐making power within households could help bridge the gap between progressive gender ideals and reality, thus boosting fertility intentions. Fertility‐boosting policies should aim to further reduce this gap and promote women's autonomy in family matters.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70081   open full text
  • Mechanisms linking household income trajectories to adolescent mental well‐being: A longitudinal study.
    Qian‐Wen Xie, Shuang Lu, Xiangyan Luo, Jiaqi Deng.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 1084-1101, April 2026. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjectives\nUsing four waves of data from the China Family Panel Study, this study examined the impact of household income trajectories on two key dimensions of adolescent mental well‐being (i.e., depressive symptoms and happiness) and explored the mediating mechanisms.\n\n\nBackground\nSubstantial evidence links socioeconomic status (SES) to adolescent mental health, yet few studies have examined how longitudinal SES trajectories shape mental well‐being and the mechanisms underlying these relationships.\n\n\nMethod\nUsing group‐based trajectory modeling, we analyzed a nationally representative sample of 3,491 Chinese families with adolescents aged 10 to 19, identifying five distinct income trajectories.\n\n\nResults\nAdolescents from stable lower middle‐income and decreasing‐income groups demonstrated more depressive symptoms compared with their counterparts in the stable high‐income group. These associations were primarily mediated by maternal mental well‐being and family material investment pathways. Additionally, adolescents in the stable low‐income group exhibited lower happiness levels than the stable high‐income group, with maternal mental well‐being partly mediating this association.\n\n\nConclusion\nBoth stable lower income and downward income mobility are significant predictors of poorer adolescent mental health outcomes, mediated through distinct pathways such as family stress and family material investment.\n\n\nImplications\nOur results underscore the critical role of SES trajectories in shaping developmental contexts that influence adolescent mental well‐being.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70068   open full text
  • A coparent intervention to prevent prenatal stress and depression symptoms in families with lower incomes.
    Rachel J. Herman, Alexandrea L. Craft, Christina A. Rowley, Maureen Perry‐Jenkins, Sally I. Powers, Marsha Kline Pruett, Robert B. Straus, Alice E. Coyne, Nancy Byatt.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 1409-1431, April 2026. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nBackground\nSocietal inequities place some groups of expectant parents, such as those who experience discrimination based on race and class, at greater risk for prenatal depression and stress.\n\n\nObjective\nThe goal of this pilot trial was to assess the feasibility and efficacy of an intervention to reduce depressive symptoms and stress (self‐reported and physiological) among families with low‐income during early pregnancy.\n\n\nMethod\nParticipants included 46 dyads, 24 of whom were assigned to the PREParing for Parenthood (PREP) intervention group and 22 to the usual care group. PREP consisted of six psychoeducational group sessions during pregnancy taught by paraprofessionals in a community setting. Interviews were completed at baseline, post‐intervention, and 6 to 8 weeks postpartum to assess for symptoms of depression (Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale), perceived stress (Perceived Stress Scale), and physiological stress via salivary cortisol. Indicators of intervention feasibility were also collected.\n\n\nResults\nResults revealed a decrease in depressive symptoms (Cohen's d = .53) and self‐reported stress (Cohen's d = .62) for mothers in the intervention group compared with the control group. Intervention group mothers also had lower physiological stress post‐intervention compared with the control group. No effects were observed for partners. Most participants attended at least five of six intervention sessions and reported high satisfaction with the intervention.\n\n\nConclusion and Implications\nThe accessible nature of the PREP program makes it a promising intervention to reduce perinatal maternal mental health inequities. Findings contribute to the field of family science by developing and testing one of the first prevention programs to take a family systems approach to promoting mental health during early pregnancy.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70063   open full text
  • Psychometric properties of the Polish version of the Family Leisure Satisfaction Scale.
    Beata Pluta, Magdalena Krzykała, Bernadeta Hołderna‐Mielcarek, Joanna Śniadek.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 1256-1272, April 2026. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nThis research evaluates the Polish version of the Family Leisure Satisfaction Scale's (FLSS) psychometric properties and its alignment with the original scale's single‐factor structure.\n\n\nBackground\nThe FLSS was used to measure the degree of satisfaction that family members derive from their leisure activities together. This work extends prior research, the first stage of which involved the Polish cultural adaptation of the Family Leisure Activity Profile questionnaire.\n\n\nMethod\nThe scale structure was subjected to confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). CFA demonstrated a good fit of the model to the data based on a sample of 494 Polish individuals from 247 families, including parents and children (aged 11–16 years).\n\n\nResults\nAll fit indicators were satisfactory, allowing the two models to fit the data very well: comparative fit index (CFI) = .93 to .94 (Model 1) and CFI = .92 to .95 (Model 2); Tucker–Lewis index (TLI) = .91 to .92 (Model 1) and TLI = .91 to .93 (Model 2); standardized root mean squared residual (SRMR) = .063 to .069 (Model 1) and SRMR = .062 to .070 (Model 2); root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) = .077 to .82 (Model 1) and RMSEA = .072 to .077 (Model 2). The results show a high level of internal consistency: Cronbach's α = .92 to .93, intraclass correlation coefficient (2 k) = .91 to .94.\n\n\nConclusion\nThe results confirm that the scale retains its original single‐factor structure, which is essential for its applicability to different cultural settings.\n\n\nImplications\nBy confirming the scale's validity and reliability, this research contributes to the broader field of family leisure studies in Poland and supports initiatives to enhance family cohesion through shared activities. It will probably be used as a basis for future international studies of family assessment tools.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70155   open full text
  • Dimensions of harsh parenting and Chinese adolescents' internalizing problems: Roles of emotion regulation and neuroticism.
    Shuang Bi, Linfei Liu, Qi Liu, Yaping Cao.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 960-976, April 2026. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nWe aimed to differentiate the effect of psychological aggression and corporal punishment of harsh parenting on Chinese adolescents' internalizing problems through the mediating role of adolescents' maladaptive cognitive emotion regulation strategies (MCERS) and the moderating role of neuroticism.\n\n\nBackground\nPast research has linked harsh parenting to internalizing problems in adolescents but overlooked the unique role of different dimensions of harsh parenting and the corresponding pathways linked to adolescents' internalizing problems.\n\n\nMethod\nA total of 530 Chinese families including both parents and their adolescents (Mage = 14.06; SD = 0.86; 52.8% girls and 47.2% boys) from a junior high school in northern mainland China participated in the study. Parents completed questionnaires on their use of corporal punishment and psychological aggression. Adolescents completed self‐reports on their MCERS, internalizing problems, and neuroticism.\n\n\nResults\nResults showed that psychological aggression indirectly affected Chinese adolescents' internalizing problems through MCERS, whereas corporal punishment did not show such an effect on adolescents' internalizing problems. Additionally, neuroticism moderated the relationship between MCERS and internalizing problems, such that adolescents with higher neuroticism were more vulnerable to the impact of MCERS.\n\n\nConclusion\nThe findings indicate that psychological aggression, but not corporal punishment, is associated with Chinese adolescents' MCERS and more internalizing problems, especially among adolescents who reported higher levels of neuroticism.\n\n\nImplications\nPrevention efforts, including school‐based intervention and family life education, should emphasize the adverse role of parents' psychological aggression in addressing adolescents' internalizing problems and particular attention should be given to adolescents who are higher on neuroticism.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70158   open full text
  • Parent–child interaction quality mediates the relationship between parental self‐efficacy and child vocabulary.
    Kristina Strother‐Garcia, Britt Singletary, Daniela Avelar, Laura Justice.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 977-996, April 2026. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nWe examined relationships among parental self‐efficacy, parent–child interaction quality, and child vocabulary in families of low socioeconomic status (SES).\n\n\nBackground\nSES is correlated with child vocabulary, but this relationship is mediated by parenting characteristics, as explained by the family stress and family investment models. Here, we explored parental self‐efficacy because it is associated with both SES and parenting behaviors that support child development.\n\n\nMethod\nParental self‐efficacy, sociodemographic, and household data were measured at baseline in a sample of 89 low‐SES mother–child dyads. Parent–child interaction quality was assessed from video recordings (child age M = 12.01 months) and vocabulary was assessed via parent report (child age M = 25.09 months). Comparisons of means, correlations, and mediation analyses were conducted.\n\n\nResults\nNo mean differences in parent–child interaction quality or child vocabulary were found based on sociodemographic or household traits. Parental self‐efficacy and parent–child interaction quality were correlated, as were parent–child interaction quality and child vocabulary. Parent–child interaction quality fully mediated the relationship between parental self‐efficacy and child vocabulary.\n\n\nConclusion\nParental self‐efficacy relates to child language development indirectly through its positive effect on parenting behavior.\n\n\nImplications\nTargeting parental self‐efficacy for intervention alongside parent–child interaction skills may improve parenting quality and children's subsequent development.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70159   open full text
  • Overprotective Parenting: Examining pressures to be perfect, social media comparisons, world instability and parent anxiety.
    Katherine M. Ryan, Melanie J. Zimmer‐Gembeck, Tanya Hawes, Jaimee Stuart, Gregoire Zimmermann, Bart Soenens, Stijn Van Petegem.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 11, 2026
    ["Family Relations, Volume 75, Issue 2, Page 938-959, April 2026. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nBackground and Objectives\nOverprotective parenting (OP) is defined as parents' inclination to take over children's tasks, overinvolvement in children's self‐direction and decision‐making, and interfering in age‐appropriate autonomy. Past studies have focused on impacts of OP on child mental health and well‐being, but few have considered what social circumstances could produce parents' OP. The aim of the current study was to investigate parents' perceptions of world scarcity and instability, perceived societal pressures related to parenting, and comparisons on social media as correlates of OP, considering direct and indirect (via parents' anxiety) associations. A secondary aim was to explore whether associations differed for mothers and fathers.\n\n\nMethod\nAustralian parents (N = 909; 67% mothers) of an adolescent aged 16 to 19 years completed an online survey.\n\n\nResults\nIn a latent‐variable structural equation model, OP was explained by perceived world threat and upward comparisons on social media; these associations were mostly direct but were partially mediated by parents' anxiety. Perceived world threat and social comparisons had moderate and large, respectively, direct associations with parents' elevated anxiety, resulting in significant indirect associations of societal pressures on OP via parents' anxiety. Parent gender moderated four model paths—one involving parents' anxiety and three involving OP. Most notable were a positive association of fathers' (but not mothers') anxiety with OP, and a positive association of world threat with mothers' (but not fathers') OP.\n\n\nConclusion\nFor those who interact with parents, such as teachers or support providers, it is important to be aware that OP could be a reaction to societal and social media pressures.\n\n\nImplications\nOverall, these findings indicate that reducing parents' anxiety and addressing social comparison and pressure, particularly in gender‐sensitive ways, may help mitigate overprotective parenting in the context of perceived world threats.\n\n"]
    March 11, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70150   open full text
  • Regretting mother‐ and fatherhood in Switzerland: Equal parenthood regret but for different reasons.
    Larissa Fritsch, Sandra Gilgen.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 09, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis article investigates the prevalence of and factors associated with parenthood regret in Switzerland.\n\n\nBackground\nThere is increasing evidence that parenthood regrets occur both in mothers and fathers, but little is known about their causes and how they relate to gendered norms and conditions of parenthood.\n\n\nMethod\nBased on a representative nationwide sample (1,923 women and 1,461 men), this study used the crosswise‐model design to address the sensitive question of parenthood regrets. The analysis is based on logistic regression models that are guided by directed acyclic graphs.\n\n\nResults\nAn equal share (29%) of women and men at least sometimes regret parenthood. Fathers who view children as a source of reputation regret parenthood more often. Fathers who view children as a source of new ideas are less likely to regret parenthood. For mothers, circumstances, in particular age and relationship quality, are more important factors.\n\n\nConclusion\nMothers and fathers experience parenthood regret at similar rates. Although conditions of parenthood are especially important for mothers, fathers are more impacted by norms surrounding parenthood.\n\n\nImplications\nFamily policies should focus on improving parenting conditions by addressing financial and caregiving burdens and specifically support men in strengthening their ability to make informed and intentional parenting decisions.\n\n"]
    March 09, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70088   open full text
  • Longitudinal trajectories of maternal perceived support: The role of household conditions.
    Melissa Radey, John Moore.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 07, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nThis study examines the relationship between mothers' household conditions and their perceptions of available support across their children's development.\n\n\nBackground\nMany U.S. mothers and children live in arrangements with nonnuclear kin and experience changes in arrangements. Mothers and children living outside nuclear family structures and those with residential instability fare worse across mental and physical well‐being measures. The contribution of household conditions to mothers' support networks is less clear.\n\n\nMethods\nThe Future of Families and Child Wellbeing dataset is a national birth‐cohort study of U.S. children born in 1998–2000. The study used data from mothers from baseline through Year 15 (n = 4,587). Bivariate statistics and multilevel models of change examined household conditions and mothers' perceived support.\n\n\nResults\nNet of extensive socioeconomic characteristics, mothers living alone had lower odds of perceiving support (odds ratio [OR] = .78, 95% confidence interval [CI] [.65, .93]) while mothers living with nonpartner adults had higher odds (OR = 1.24–1.29, 95% CI [1.02, 1.59]) than those in nuclear families. Odds of support increased for mothers in nuclear families over time while decreasing or stabilizing for other groups. Cumulative living arrangement and residential changes related to lower odds of support.\n\n\nConclusions\nOur findings signify the importance of considering the context, including timing, of specific relationships among adults in a household and household changes when assessing perceived support.\n\n\nImplications\nThe absence of consistent perceived support, particularly for those outside of nuclear family arrangements and those with changes in housing conditions, suggest the importance of connecting families to community and public support systems.\n\n"]
    March 07, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70145   open full text
  • The tensions between parenthood rights and child's interests: Israeli court analysis of parents with disabilities.
    Michal Segal, Ari Reich, Ayelet Gur.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 07, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nBackground\nThe Convention on the Rights of Persons With Disabilities establishes the fundamental right to parenthood, yet these rights are frequently violated. Parents with disabilities face disproportionate involvement with child protective services and higher rates of custody loss.\n\n\nMethods\nThis qualitative study employed systematic case law analysis. Court decisions were located through Israel's legal database. After applying inclusion criteria, 78 judgments involving parents with disabilities were analyzed using thematic analysis.\n\n\nResults\nTwo themes emerged: (a) the right to parenthood as a guiding principle, emphasizing approaching custody with sensitivity and presuming children belong with biological parents; and (b) the best interests of the child as the leading doctrine, prioritizing stability, time considerations, and the child's age. Despite incorporating rights discourse, courts consistently prioritized child welfare over parental rights.\n\n\nConclusion\nAlthough courts demonstrate awareness of rights principles, significant gaps exist between discourse and outcomes. The study reveals institutional‐level discrimination where formal recognition fails to translate into substantive protection.\n\n\nImplications\nComprehensive legal reforms, enhanced support systems, and therapeutic jurisprudence approaches are needed to ensure meaningful implementation of parental rights for persons with disabilities.\n\n"]
    March 07, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70153   open full text
  • Negative birth experiences and fathers' well‐being: The roles of gender role stress and social support.
    Daniel Franco, Hisham Abu‐Raiya.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 07, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nBackground\nFathers' childbirth experiences are underexamined despite implications for coparenting and family functioning. Treating birth as a gendered, institutional process, we examined how adverse paternal experiences relate to fathers' subjective well‐being (SWB) in Israel's pronatalist context.\n\n\nObjective\nWe test an applied model in which negative birth experiences are linked to SWB via masculine gender‐role stress (MGRS) and assess whether perceived social support moderates these effects.\n\n\nMethods\nA cross‐sectional survey of recent Israeli fathers (n = 352; ≤6 months postpartum) was conducted to assess negative birth experiences, life satisfaction, positive/negative affect, MGRS, and perceived social support. Structural equation modeling estimated mediation and moderation.\n\n\nResults\nMore negative birth experiences were associated with lower life satisfaction and higher negative affect (not positive affect). MGRS accounted for a significant indirect association between negative experiences and both life satisfaction and negative affect. Perceived social support did not moderate the negative‐experience → MGRS path but independently related to higher life satisfaction and positive affect and lower negative affect.\n\n\nConclusions and Implications\nChildbirth is a family transition where hegemonic masculinity can be activated and destabilized. Negative paternal experiences are linked to diminished SWB, in part through MGRS, highlighting intervention targets. Family educators and perinatal teams should implement father‐inclusive preparation/debriefing, train staff in gender‐responsive communication, screen briefly for MGRS‐related distress with referral to peer/partner supports, and adopt policies that formalize father participation and bolster postpartum community supports to strengthen coparenting and early family resilience.\n\n"]
    March 07, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70168   open full text
  • Development and validation of the Digital Fertility Influence Scale: Evidence from Türkiye.
    Selman Kızılkaya, Nuh Ataman, Gülizar Gülcan Şeremet.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 07, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nTo develop and validate the Digital Fertility Influence Scale (DFIS), an instrument designed to assess how digital media shape women's fertility‐related reasoning, perceptions, and emotional responses within the Turkish cultural context.\n\n\nBackground\nDigital platforms increasingly shape reproductive health by circulating information, social norms, and cultural ideals surrounding fertility and motherhood. Yet no validated scale exists to capture the combined social, informational, and representational influences of these environments.\n\n\nMethod\nAn initial 25‐item pool was generated from the literature and expert consultation and refined to 21 items following content validity review. The items were tested with two independent samples of Turkish women aged 18 to 49 (n = 196 for exploratory factor analysis [EFA]; n = 444 for confirmatory factor analysis [CFA]). Reliability was evaluated with Cronbach's α and McDonald's ω; validity with average variance extracted (AVE), composite reliability (CR), and model fit indices.\n\n\nResults\nEFA revealed a 13‐item, three‐factor structure: digital social influence, digital information access, and parenthood representations. CFA confirmed the model with acceptable fit (χ2/df = 3.48, comparative fit index = .92, root mean square error of approximation = .07, standardized root mean squared residual = .05). Reliability was strong (α = .726–.794; total α = .866), and convergent validity was supported (AVE = .51–.58, CR = .81–.86).\n\n\nConclusion\nThe DFIS is a valid and reliable tool for measuring digital media's influence women's fertility‐related cognition, emotion, and social reasoning.\n\n\nImplications\nThe scale can guide reproductive health professionals, policymakers, and digital platform designers in developing interventions that address both informational benefits and normative pressures in digital environments.\n\n"]
    March 07, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70128   open full text
  • Parental rejection and adolescent problematic social media use: Role of interpersonal strengths and gender dyads.
    Kaiji Zhou, Xiaoqin Zhu, Daniel T. L. Shek, Wenqing Zong.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 05, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study examined the role of interpersonal strengths in the association between parental rejection and adolescent problematic social media use (PSMU), with a particular focus on parent–child gender interplay.\n\n\nBackground\nExisting literature has associated parental rejection with adolescent PSMU. However, the moderating mechanisms, particularly the potential gender effects, have not been well studied.\n\n\nMethod\nBased on data from 1,874 Chinese adolescents aged from 11 to 19 years old (mean age = 14.78 ± 1.44 years; 56.46% female), structural equation modeling was conducted to examine the proposed model.\n\n\nResults\n(a) Both father and mother rejection were positively associated with adolescents' PSMU, whereas interpersonal strengths were negatively associated with PSMU; (b) in the full sample, interpersonal strengths significantly enhanced the association between father and mother rejection and PSMU; and (c) in gender subgroups, such an exacerbating effect of interpersonal strength was observed in mother–daughter, mother–son, and father–son (but not father–daughter) dyads.\n\n\nConclusion\nOur findings reveal the complex role of interpersonal strengths as having a direct protective effect but exacerbating the adverse link between parental rejection and adolescent PSMU.\n\n\nImplications\nThere is a need for a contextual understanding of positive psychological assets, such as interpersonal strengths, as a “double‐edged sword” in parent–child relationship contexts. We call for more tailor‐made practices (instead of a one‐size‐fits‐all approach) for preventing and addressing adolescents' PSMU.\n\n"]
    March 05, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70099   open full text
  • Women's experiences in polygamous marriages: A qualitative examination of kuma in the context of Şanlıurfa, Türkiye.
    Hatice Cecen‐Celik, Sabiha Tuysuz.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 05, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study aimed to explore in depth the experiences of women living in polygamous marriages, examining their perceptions, coping mechanisms, and how such marriages shape and reflect gender roles and power dynamics.\n\n\nBackground\nPolygamous marriage practices, particularly the experience of kuma (cowife), vary across societies due to cultural and social differences.\n\n\nMethod\nUsing a qualitative research design, in‐depth interviews were conducted with 18 women in Şanlıurfa, Türkiye, selected through a snowball sampling approach. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis, focusing on women's perceptions of being cowives, their coping strategies, and the effects of polygamous marriages on gender roles and power relations.\n\n\nResults\nThe findings indicate that economic necessities, patriarchal traditions, and societal pressures are key factors in the persistence of polygamous marriages. Women often enter such marriages due to financial dependence, expectations of bearing male children, or family pressure. The absence of official marriage registration leaves women without legal protection, leading to psychological distress and social exclusion. Additionally, religious and cultural norms are observed to legitimize polygamy, reinforcing gender inequality.\n\n\nConclusion\nThis study underscores the significance of legal regulations, policy interventions, and social awareness initiatives in safeguarding women's rights and promoting gender equality. Addressing the socioeconomic vulnerabilities underlying polygamous practices and transforming patriarchal structures are crucial for promoting more equitable marriage practices.\n\n"]
    March 05, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70111   open full text
  • Racially and economically diverse participants' change in couple‐focused mindfulness following participation in couple relationship education.
    Julianne McGill, Ziying Wang, Francesca Adler‐Baeder.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 04, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nThis study evaluated ELEVATE, an evidence‐based couple relationship education (CRE) program, to explore whether general CRE programs with brief mindfulness components would enhance couple‐focused mindfulness and relationship functioning over time.\n\n\nBackground\nAlthough mindfulness has been suggested as a significant contributor to relationship functioning and several mindfulness‐based CRE programs have been developed and shown their effectiveness, no research has explored whether general CRE programs with limited mindfulness integration would produce similar benefits.\n\n\nMethod\nData were from 2,580 individuals in couple relationships. Assessments occurred at baseline, immediately after the program, and at a 1‐year follow‐up. Measures included eight dimensions of couple‐focused mindfulness (i.e., nonjudging, patience, beginner's mind, trust, nonstriving, acceptance, letting go, and noticing), relationship quality, and relationship skills.\n\n\nResults\nResults revealed significant immediate postprogram increases across all relational mindfulness dimensions and the overall couple mindfulness. Significant effects were sustained for all except trust of self at 1‐year follow‐up. Additionally, immediate gains in couple mindfulness significantly predicted long‐term improvements in relationship quality and skills over a year.\n\n\nConclusion\nEven limited mindfulness integration in CRE may promote couple mindfulness to further foster relationship functioning.\n\n\nImplications\nPractitioners may consider embedding brief mindfulness practices into general CRE programs to support long‐term healthy relationship development.\n\n"]
    March 04, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70143   open full text
  • Parental sensitivity, child cognitive competence, and child socioemotional competence: Long‐term cascade and transactional effects.
    Chia‐Feng Chen, Daniel W. Russell, Thomas J. Schofield.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. February 26, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThe goal was to test a developmental model incorporating various parent and child effects.\n\n\nBackground\nApproaches offered to describe child development include attachment, transactional, and cascade perspectives, but research testing these three theories simultaneously has been lacking.\n\n\nMethod\nWe investigated whether early parental sensitivity predicted later child competence, child cognitive competence and socioemotional competence predicted one another, transactional relations existed between parental sensitivity and child competence, and the association between parental sensitivity and child competence was moderated by child gender. Indirect effects between parental sensitivity and child competence were examined. Multiple‐informant data from a multiethnic sample of children and their families followed from ages 3 to 10 years (N = 1,364, 48% female) were analyzed using the cross‐lagged panel model and multiple‐group analysis in structural equation modeling. Indirect effects were tested using bootstrap.\n\n\nResults\nParental sensitivity predicted later child competence (eight out of 18 paths, 44%), child cognitive competence and socioemotional competence predicted one another (three out of eight paths, 38%), and transactional relations between parental sensitivity and child competence existed (18 out of 32 paths, 56%). Two moderation effects by child gender were identified (out of 40 paths, 5%). Cascade and transactional indirect effects lasted between 3.5 to 5.5 years (14 out of 39 paths, 36%).\n\n\nConclusion\nChildren receiving higher parental sensitivity from early through middle childhood generally show better socioemotional and cognitive competence later, and child effects on parents are also evident.\n\n\nImplications\nTransactional effects between parental sensitivity and child competence across a longer time span merit further investigation.\n\n"]
    February 26, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70110   open full text
  • Talking sex at home: Family communication, sexual self‐efficacy, beliefs, behaviors, and gender differences.
    Victoria Quesada, Maria Antònia Gomila, Rosario Pozo‐Gordaliza, Roxana Sarrablo, Lídia Sánchez‐Prieto.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. February 25, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nBackground\nSexuality is shaped by power relations, gender norms, and cultural discourses that profoundly influence how young adults experience, understand, and express their sexuality.\n\n\nObjective\nThis study investigates the relationship between family communication about sexuality, sexual self‐efficacy, sexual beliefs and myths, and risky sexual behaviors in a sample of 457 students from the University of the Balearic Islands.\n\n\nMethod\nUsing a cross‐sectional, descriptive, and correlational design, a questionnaire was administered.\n\n\nResults\nFindings indicate that young adults communicate more about sexuality with their mothers, regardless of gender identity; however, women report significantly higher levels of maternal communication than men. Greater maternal communication is associated with higher sexual self‐efficacy, although not with age of sexual initiation or engagement in risky sexual behaviors. Endorsement of sexual myths is linked to lower self‐efficacy and limited parental communication.\n\n\nConclusions\nCommunication with fathers is not significantly associated with any factor. Maternal communication positively predicts sexual self‐efficacy and healthy sexual beliefs and negatively predicts adherence to sexual myths, forming a chain of indirect relationships mediated by self‐efficacy.\n\n\nImplications\nThe study underscores the importance of fostering open, critical, and emotionally supportive family communication to challenge heteronormative discourses and promote a more informed, equitable sexuality.\n\n"]
    February 25, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70147   open full text
  • Dyadic expectations of cooperation and support in the transition to parenthood.
    Beatriz Melim, Marisa Matias, Carolina Garraio, Sabine Walper, Paula Mena Matos.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. February 24, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThe purpose was to examine dyadic (in)congruent expectations of first‐time expectant parents regarding future coparental cooperation, caregiving responsibilities, and partner support, and explore how gendered assumptions and structural factors (e.g., parental leave) shape these expectations.\n\n\nBackground\nThe transition to parenthood involves major psychological, relational, and practical changes. Although previous research has emphasized coparenting after birth, less is known about how expectant parents anticipate and construct shared or divergent roles before their child arrives.\n\n\nMethod\nThis qualitative study is part of the CopaGloba longitudinal project on coparenting. Semistructured individual interviews were conducted with 34 Portuguese heterosexual couples (N = 68) in the third trimester of pregnancy. Thematic and dyadic interview analysis were used to identify shared and divergent expectations.\n\n\nResults\nFive coparental representation patterns emerged. Congruent patterns were (a) Partners in Learning and (b) Mentor–Mentee, and incongruent patterns were (c) Mother‐as‐Mentor/Father‐as‐Partner, (d) Mother‐as‐Partner/Father‐as‐Mentee, and (e) Ambiguous couples. Gendered caregiving assumptions, breastfeeding, and leave policies shaped these expectations.\n\n\nConclusion\nExpectant parents hold diverse representations of future cooperation, shaped by gender norms and policy contexts.\n\n\nImplications\nThese findings highlight the importance of addressing coparental expectations during the prenatal period. Supporting couples in articulating their roles, responsibilities, and mutual support can strengthen early coparenting dynamics and inform the development of preventive, family‐focused interventions.\n\n"]
    February 24, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70097   open full text
  • “Like a roller‐coaster ride”: Fathers' perspectives about their role in childcare.
    Dora d'Orsi, Eduardo Sardinha, Eva Diniz.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. February 23, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nObjective\nThis study qualitatively explores fathers' perceptions of their parenting role, as well as the challenges and resources associated with it.\n\n\nBackground\nSocietal changes in recent years have led to a transformation in the father's role, with fathers playing an integral role in shaping family dynamics and children's development. A question remains, however: How do fathers see their role in parenthood nowadays?\n\n\nMethod\nWe conducted four focus groups with 16 Portuguese and immigrant fathers of young children. All participants were employed, predominantly married, and had high levels of education.\n\n\nResults\nWe used thematic analysis and identified four dominant themes: (a) the father's role, (b) barriers to father involvement, (c) facilitators of father involvement, and (d) process of becoming a father.\n\n\nConclusions\nFathers predominantly viewed themselves as guides and role models for their children, often drawing comparisons with the maternal role, indicating a prevalent focus on mothers' roles in parenthood narratives. Both instrumental and emotional support were identified as pivotal facilitators to their role, whereas lack of support and coparenting conflicts were identified as primary barriers to active fatherhood.\n\n\nImplications\nThese findings underscore the importance of tailoring policies and programs to support contemporary families effectively.\n\n"]
    February 23, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70139   open full text
  • A new feminist perspective on single motherhood with school‐age children.
    Muhammet Fatih Doğan.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. February 23, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis research examines the multidimensional nature of the single motherhood experience through a new feminist lens, focusing on how maternal agency is exercised across different sociopolitical contexts.\n\n\nBackground\nWhile international literature often frames single motherhood within narratives of economic vulnerability and psychosocial deprivation, this study addresses the complexity of these experiences beyond simple victimhood.\n\n\nMethods\nEmploying a qualitative phenomenological design, the study utilized thematic analysis of semistructured interviews with 25 single mothers across Türkiye, Greece, and Armenia. Participants were recruited via snowball sampling to capture diverse lived experiences.\n\n\nResults\nFindings reveal that single motherhood is a complex terrain of vulnerability and resistance. While “time poverty” and economic precarity create “constrained choice,” women practice agency through strategic memorialization, matrilineal support networks, and the strategic transformation of maternal roles.\n\n\nConclusion\nThe study concludes that an intersectional feminist approach is imperative to understand these diverse, non‐homogeneous experiences of agency and structural constraint.\n\n\nImplications\nPolicies must be holistic and dignified, moving beyond cash assistance to include accessible childcare, legal counselling for alimony, and psychological support systems that bolster maternal autonomy.\n\n"]
    February 23, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70129   open full text
  • “I'm all there for her”: Perspectives of Arab mothers in Israel on mother–daughter relationships in young adulthood.
    Haneen Karram‐Elias.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. February 23, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study aimed to explore how Arab mothers in Israel perceive their intergenerational relationships with young adult daughters within the sociocultural context of Arab society and their intersecting marginalized positions as women and ethnic minority members.\n\n\nBackground\nIntergenerational relationships among ethnic minorities are shaped by cultural, social, and religious contexts. This study is among the first to highlight Arab mothers' voices in Israel, expanding the largely Western‐focused literature. It draws on intergenerational solidarity and intersectional marginality frameworks.\n\n\nMethod\nUsing a constructivist grounded theory approach, in‐depth interviews were conducted with 27 Arab mothers of young adult daughters recruited through social media and snowball sampling.\n\n\nResults\nTwo main themes emerged: (a) self‐perceptions of motherhood: responsibility for educational and religious values and allowing decision‐making space; and (b) collaborative dialogue: emotional support, mutual understanding, and negotiation of disagreement.\n\n\nConclusion\nMother–daughter relations in Arab society reflect cultural and religious values that stress achievement and family reputation. Mothers combine supervisory and supportive roles, blending control with emotional closeness, whereas solidarity emerges within marginality.\n\n\nImplications\nPractitioners should acknowledge mothers' complex roles balancing tradition, autonomy, and faith. Culturally sensitive interventions can promote empowerment, emotional well‐being, and agency within these intergenerational contexts.\n\n"]
    February 23, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70085   open full text
  • From isolation to collaboration: Parent peer support groups among rural mothers of children with hearing loss.
    Haojie Yuan, Zhonglian Yan, Jiayuan Lei, Yifei Zhao, Yaping Yue.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. February 21, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis study examined how parent peer support groups form and function among rural mothers of children aged 0–3 years with hearing loss in China, highlighting how these grassroots caregiving communities emerge and sustain themselves amid limited formal support.\n\n\nBackground\nRural Chinese families of children with hearing loss often face parenting stress and service gaps due to urban–rural dual structure. Lacking formal support, mothers frequently establish self‐organized parent peer support groups as adaptive systems to navigate caregiving challenges and mitigate social isolation.\n\n\nMethod\nGuided by grounded theory, in‐depth semistructured interviews were conducted with 18 rural mothers who had migrated to Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, for their children's rehabilitation. Data were analyzed through open, axial, and selective coding using NVivo 12, with theoretical saturation confirmed through additional interviews.\n\n\nResults\nParent peer support groups progressed through three stages—tentative exploration, mutual support, and familial companionship. Four caregiving domains emerged: daily assistance, emotional empowerment, social reconnection, and child rehabilitation cooperation. Five influencing factors—parental, child, family, institutional, and social—jointly shaped group development. These self‐organized networks filled service gaps, reduced stress, and improved family resilience and children's outcomes.\n\n\nConclusion\nParent peer support groups represent a culturally grounded, self‐organizing caregiving model that transforms isolation into empowerment. The findings extend community and self‐organization theories by showing how trust, shared goals, and emotional reciprocity foster collaborative caregiving in resource‐limited rural contexts.\n\n"]
    February 21, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70104   open full text
  • Mental health in parents of very preterm infants at 12 months: Influential variables and profiles.
    María Merced Barbancho‐Morant, Eva M. Padilla‐Muñoz, Susana Sanduvete‐Chaves, Salvador Chacón‐Moscoso, María Dolores Lanzarote‐Fernández.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. January 30, 2026
    ["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThe goal was to explore the influence of clinical and developmental variables of the infant on the mental health of parents at12 months corrected age of very preterm babies.\n\n\nBackground\nThere is no agreement on whether all parents of preterm infants need the same specialized attention in the neonatal intensive care unit and during their first years.\n\n\nMethod\nThe sample consisted of 107 couples. Stress, depression, resilience, and two types of monitoring were evaluated in both parents and in child development. We tested the influence of the infants' development on the parents' mental health using neural networks, and we explored different family profiles with cluster analysis.\n\n\nResults\nThe most influential variable for parents' mental health was the Developmental Index. Two family profiles were obtained, one of which presented greater risk, regardless of the clinical variables at birth.\n\n\nConclusions\nAt 12 months after the child's birth, the mental health of parents of very preterm infants was associated with the child's development and, to a lesser extent, with clinical variables upon birth. Family profiles were differentiated by the parents' mental health.\n\n\nImplications\nIn order to be able to intervene early, it would be beneficial to extend the monitoring of not only the baby's development but also the parents' mental health.\n\n"]
    January 30, 2026   doi: 10.1111/fare.70136   open full text
  • Benefits of and Barriers to Romantic Relationships Among Mothers in Ireland.
    Kristin Hadfield, Elizabeth Nixon.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. October 20, 2017
    Objective To examine what mothers expect of their romantic relationships and what prevents them from forming and maintaining relationships. Background Although there has been research on mothers' attitudes toward and expectations of marriage, there has been limited examination of their dating. It is critical to understand why parents form romantic relationships and what might cause them to cycle in and out of relationships to understand stepfamily formation. Method On the basis of semistructured interviews with a convenience sample of 33 single or repartnered Irish mothers, we conducted a thematic analysis guided by a social exchange framework. Results Mothers believed that being in a relationship would enable them to enact their preferred relationship roles, give them extra support, and provide a different gender role model for their child(ren). They found forming long‐term relationships difficult because of a lack of suitable partners, limited time and support, stepparents' possible negative influences on their child(ren), and their own personal characteristics. Unlike previous studies conducted in the United States, Irish mothers were not focused on the economic viability of partners or on economic benefits associated with repartnering. Conclusions Mothers believe that there are several rewards to forming and being in a relationship, but they face many impediments that may prevent them from forming long‐term relationships. Implications Practitioners may find it useful to focus on tempering mothers' expectations of relationship benefits and on reducing mothers' personal costs when forming and maintaining relationships.
    October 20, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12261   open full text
  • Prospective Parents' Knowledge About Parenting and Their Anticipated Child‐Rearing Decisions.
    Darcey N. Powell, Katherine Karraker.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. October 17, 2017
    Objective To examine whether the theory of planned behavior can be used to understand intentions for child‐rearing practices. Background Parenting intentions are formed before becoming a parent, but it is less clear what nonparents' intentions are and how subjective norms, attitudes, and perceived control predict their intentions. Method Nonparent emerging adults (N = 353, Mage = 19.6 years, 72% female) were asked about their intentions to (a) breast‐feed or support a partner in breastfeeding, (b) circumcise a male infant, (c) co‐sleep, and (4) put their infant in nonparental daytime care. They were also asked what proportion of American parents they thought engaged in each and why they would or would not engage in each practice. Results Most intended to breast‐feed and to circumcise their male infants, but not to co‐sleep or to put their infant in nonparental daytime care. Participants' inaccurate knowledge about actual parents' behavior (i.e., subjective norms) and the factors that they thought might affect their own future behavior (i.e., attitudes toward and perceived control) were associated with their intentions for the child‐rearing practices. Conclusion This study replicated prior research on breast‐feeding intentions and extended the viability of the theory of planned behavior to understand prospective parents' intentions for other child‐rearing practices. Implications Practitioners should consider discussing the norms surrounding child‐rearing behaviors during health‐ and development‐focused courses in secondary or postsecondary school and with expecting couples.
    October 17, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12259   open full text
  • Parental Pre‐ and Postpartum Mental Health Predicts Child Mental Health and Development.
    Mervi Vänskä, Raija‐Leena Punamäki, Jallu Lindblom, Marjo Flykt, Asko Tolvanen, Leila Unkila‐Kallio, Maija Tulppala, Aila Tiitinen.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. October 13, 2017
    Objective To identify interplay of early maternal and paternal mental health symptoms for predicting child mental health and development. Background Research on family mental health has largely excluded fathers, although the well‐being of both parents is likely to be important for child development. In this study, we analyzed (a) intrafamilial dynamics between mothers' and fathers' early mental health symptoms and (b) the importance of separate (mother and father) and joint (additive, hierarchical, and buffering) theoretical models of parental mental health for predicting child mental health and development. Method Finnish mothers and fathers (N = 763), half of whom conceived through assisted reproductive treatments (ART), reported their symptoms of psychological distress and depression from the pregnancy to 2 months and 12 months postpartum. Later, when the child was 7–8 years of age, parents (N = 485) reported the child's internalizing and externalizing symptoms and social and cognitive developmental problems. Results We identified both co‐occurrence and compensation in intrafamilial early parental mental health. Further, mothers' symptoms alone (separate mother model) predicted child internalizing symptoms, whereas joint parental symptoms (additive model) predicted problems in executive function. Conclusion The pre‐ and postnatal mental health of mothers and fathers is important for later child development. Implications To support healthy child development, both parents need to be screened for early mental health problems, and psychological help should be offered to families across the pre‐ and postpartum period.
    October 13, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12260   open full text
  • Moods, Stressors, and Severity of Marital Conflict: A Daily Diary Study of Low‐Income Families.
    Meghan P. McCormick, JoAnn Hsueh, Christine Merrilees, Patricia Chou, E. Mark Cummings.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. October 13, 2017
    Objective To examine links between negative moods, stressors, and daily marital conflict, and to test whether participation in a family‐strengthening program moderates those associations. Background Some family‐strengthening interventions have shown positive effects on low‐income married couples' relationships. Yet little is known about how these programs influence low‐income families' daily functioning. Method Families randomly assigned to the program participated in 10 weeks of relationship education. Control group families received no services. Thirty months later, participants reported on the severity of marital conflicts over a 15‐day period, as well as their moods and stressors. Results Dyadic models demonstrated that although moods like anger, anxiety, stress, and sadness were associated with more severe marital disagreements, associations were less strong for wives assigned to the program than to the control group. Although stress related to money was associated with more severe disagreements for husbands, associations were weaker for husbands assigned to the program than for those to the control group. Conclusion Family‐strengthening interventions may be able to reduce the tendency for negative moods and stressors to manifest in more severe marital conflict. Implications Programs may benefit from explicitly addressing the moods and stressors that individual husbands and wives report experiencing in their daily lives.
    October 13, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12258   open full text
  • Intentions to Have a Child: A Couple‐Based Process.
    Marisa Matias, Anne Marie Fontaine.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. October 06, 2017
    Objective To analyze how the endorsement of motives for and against having children act at a dyadic level to predict childbearing intentions. Background Understanding what leads individuals to have children is a topic of interest among family researchers and policy makers given that fertility rates have been decreasing in many countries. Most studies on this topic have not examined intentions about children as a dyadic process, yet most childbearing decisions occur within couple relationships. Method Using a convenience sample of heterosexual dual‐earner couples with (n = 100 couples) and without children (n = 60 couples), Actor‐Partner‐Interdependence‐Models were fitted to assess the linkages between motives and childbearing intentions. Results Different processes occur for parents and nonparents when formulating intentions to have a(nother) child. Compared to nonparents, parents are less concerned about potential changes in lifestyle or to their marital relationship, and worries about child development are subdued; rather, they are more focused on the potential emotional benefits of an additional child. In addition, partner effects were found solely in the parents' group: The more the partner perceived an additional child as enriching, the more the individual intended to have another child. Childless women were also particularly concerned about the costs of parenthood, and childless men were primarily driven by emotional enrichment motives. Conclusion Individual attitudes and behaviors with regard to intentions for having a child tend to be affected by their partner's attitudes and behaviors toward the same. Thus, the family systems approach take here provides a more holistic understanding of couple and family decision‐making processes on this issue than is possible when only collecting data from individuals. Implications For parents, interventions aimed at enhancing communication and negotiation skills between couple members could foster a more shared and informed decision‐making process. Improving women's sense of control and mastery over the juggling of multiple roles may help reduce childless women's concerns about the costs of having children.
    October 06, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12250   open full text
  • Financial Issues in Strong African American Marriages: A Strengths‐Based Qualitative Approach.
    Jeffrey P. Dew, Bonnie L. Anderson, Linda Skogrand, Cassandra Chaney.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. October 06, 2017
    Objective We examined the role financial issues played in African Americans' marriages using a strengths‐based perspective. Background Few studies have examined the importance of finances in African Americans' marriages. Those that have done so have mostly focused on money as a stressful contextual problem. Allowing African American couples to describe their own marital experiences expands our understanding regarding the interface of finances and relationships. Method Using qualitative data from 37 African American couples (N = 74 individuals) who felt they had strong marriages, we took a phenomenological approach to identify themes in the data. Results Many participants portrayed money as a stressor. Furthermore, participants discussed financial behaviors and attitudes that helped their marriages be strong. Finally, participants described transcending, or rising above, financial issues. Conclusion The participants in this study, African Americans who felt they were in strong marriages, talked about the marital role of finances in multiple ways. It was clear that they actively strived to shape the way that financial issues influenced their marriages, whether through making decisions that would help them financially and relationally or by shifting their focus to more important matters like the well‐being of family members. Implications These findings offer researchers new ideas about the intersection of money, family, and race, and show diversity among African American couples. The findings may also help practitioners recognize both the circumstances by which finances are stressors in some African American marriages, and how some African American couples navigate financial challenges while maintaining strong relationships.
    October 06, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12248   open full text
  • Family Stressors and Resources: Relationships with Depressive Symptoms in Military Couples During Pre‐Deployment.
    Christina L. Collins, Kyung‐Hee Lee, Shelley M. MacDermid Wadsworth.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. October 06, 2017
    Objective To evaluate family‐related stressors and resources associated with the depressive symptoms of military members and their spouses. Background Most deployment‐related research has focused on deployment and reintegration, but there is a dearth of information about military families during the pre‐deployment phase. Family stress theory provided a valuable lens from which to view family‐related risk and protective factors associated with adaptation during times of stressful transition. Method Data were gathered using an online survey from 151 U.S. Army National Guard members and their spouses preparing for a scheduled deployment. Hierarchical regression was utilized to examine associations between the independent variables (e.g., stress pileup, informal and formal resources, deployment preparation) and participants' depressive symptoms. Results Results revealed that aspects of stress pileup were positively associated with depressive symptoms. Informal resources and deployment preparation, but not formal resources, had statistically significant negative associations with individuals' depressive symptoms. Findings were similar for military members and spouses. Conclusion Results indicated that logistical and instrumental preparation, in addition to informal resources such as effective family functioning and social support, are important for positive adaptation in times of stressful transition. Implications Family service professionals may want to assist families with identifying and strengthening their family support and improving family functioning, as well as guide families in a process of identifying the instrumental and logistical tasks that are necessary or helpful for an impending transition.
    October 06, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12251   open full text
  • Parent–Child Relationships and Adolescents' Life Satisfaction Across the First Decade of the New Millennium.
    Antonia Jiménez‐Iglesias, Irene García‐Moya, Carmen Moreno.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. October 04, 2017
    Objective To examine whether changes occurred in parent–child relationships (maternal and paternal affection, ease of communication with the mother and father, maternal and paternal knowledge, and family activities) between 2002 and 2010 in boys and girls and to examine the contributions of these family dimensions to life satisfaction. Background Although parent–child relationships may be affected by social change, there are few investigations of change in parent–child relationships over time. Method The sample consisted of 46,593 adolescents between 11 to 18 years of age who participated in the 2002, 2006, or 2010 editions of the Health Behaviour in School‐aged Children (HBSC) study in Spain. Trend analysis including univariate analyses of variance (ANOVAs) and factorial ANOVAs were conducted separately for boys and girls, and effect size tests were calculated. Results Communication with fathers and family activities statistically increased across HBSC editions and parent–child relationships were positively associated with life satisfaction across the examined period. Conclusion There were small positive changes in some family dimensions, and some of them were increasingly important for adolescent life satisfaction over time. Implications Interventions for strengthening parent–child relationships and promoting adolescent well‐being should include mothers and fathers and emphasize affection, communication, and family activities.
    October 04, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12249   open full text
  • Inventory of Parent and Peer Attachment–Revised Scores in Adolescents: A Psychometric and Person‐Oriented Study.
    James R. Andretta, Michael T. McKay, Séamus A. Harvey, John L. Perry.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. October 04, 2017
    Objective Identify perceived parental security profiles and examine differences across profiles with regard to self‐esteem and three domains of self‐efficacy (i.e., social, emotional, and academic). Background The Inventory of Parent and Peer Attachment–Revised (IPPA‐R) is an index of the quality of communication, feelings of trust, and degree of alienation that adolescents and young adults perceive in their parental and peer relationships. However, the factor structure of IPPA‐R scores has yet to be examined in adolescents, and no study to date has included a person‐oriented analysis using the assessment tool. Method Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM) were planned to examine the structural validity of IPPA‐R scores in a large sample of adolescents (N = 1,126; 61% male, 12–16 years of age). Model‐based clustering was employed to enumerate perceived parental security profiles, and Cohen's d effect sizes were used to interpret profile differences in outcomes. Results CFA (root mean square error of approximation, RMSEA = .06, comparative fit index, CFI = .90) and ESEM (RMSEA = .04, CFI = .95) substantiated the proposed three‐factor structure for IPPA‐R parent (but not peer) scores. Model‐based clustering led to the identification of five perceived parental security profiles: (a) high security, (b) moderately high security, (c) average security, (d) moderately low security, and (e) low security. Adolescents with high security and low security profiles, respectively, reported the highest and lowest levels of self‐esteem and self‐efficacy (0.48 ≤ Cohen's d ≤ 1.67). Conclusion IPPA‐R parent, but not peer, scores appear to be a valid index of perceived parental security in adolescents. Perceived parental security profiles are strongly associated with self‐concept. Implications A student's self‐confidence in his or her ability to manage emotions and cope with the academic demands of school is explained, in part, by perceived parental security. Therefore, interventions designed to develop feelings of trust and closeness with parents, as well as lines of communication, might result in improvements in how adolescents perceive their emotional and academic aptitude.
    October 04, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12252   open full text
  • Parental Participation in the Process of Youth Joining a Program: Perspectives from Adolescents and Parents.
    Hyeyoung Kang, Marcela Raffaelli, Jill Bowers, Lorraine Munoz, Sandra Simpkins.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. July 21, 2017
    Objective This study examined the nature and extent of parental participation in the process of adolescents joining an organized program and identify factors underlying variations in overarching patterns of participation. Background Adolescents become increasingly interested in making their own choices and decisions. Thus, families must balance parental goals and adolescents' desire for autonomy in their social activities. Method Interviews were conducted with 62 adolescent program participants and 52 parents. Data analyses followed an inductive approach to identify emergent patterns in the data. Results We identified four roles parents played at the time their adolescent joined a program: emotional supporter, manager, informant, and instrumental supporter. Further, analyses revealed variations in roles and level of involvement related to adolescent age and ethnicity, as well as gaps between adolescent and parent perspectives. Overarching variations in parental engagement (the extent to which parents exerted influence during the joining process) were linked to parent, adolescent, and program factors. Conclusion Findings indicate that a multitude of factors intersect and shape whether and how parents attempt to influence the joining process and manage adolescents' social activities. Implications Our findings can be used by program administrators and youth leaders to strengthen outreach and recruitment efforts with adolescents from ethnically and socioeconomically diverse family backgrounds.
    July 21, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12247   open full text
  • In the Event of Death: Lesbian Families' Plans to Preserve Stepparent–Child Relationships.
    Katie L. Acosta.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. July 21, 2017
    Objective This study explores the plans women in same‐sex stepfamilies make to preserve stepparent–child relationships in the event of an origin parent's death. Background The incomplete institutionalization of stepparent–child relationships leaves them legally vulnerable, and this vulnerability may be compounded for lesbian stepparent families given that existing policies (such as second‐parent or joint adoption) are not accessible to them. Method This study is based on in‐depth phone interviews with 39 birth, adoptive, and stepparents residing in 17 states. All were raising children from previous relationships and did so for at least one year before study participation. Some grounded theory strategies were adopted to code the transcribed data. Results Findings indicate that three approaches were used: (a) relying solely and informally on family members, (b) outlining in‐the‐event‐of‐death wishes in wills for extended family to follow, and (c) assuming that the children were old enough to choose for themselves. Conclusion Findings suggest that existing family policies leave stepparent–child relationships legally vulnerable in the event of the origin parent's death. Implications The three plans participants articulated may promote division rather than unify a support network for children at a time when they are most needing stability. Family life educators can play a key role in mitigating these divisions by teaching families tools to foster harmonious coparenting relationships among multiple parents.
    July 21, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12243   open full text
  • Role of Marital Adjustment in Associations Between Romantic Attachment and Coparenting.
    Michelle Young, Shelley Riggs, Patricia Kaminski.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. July 21, 2017
    Objective A family systems framework was used to examine the reciprocal influences of parents' romantic attachment security, marital adjustment, and the coparenting alliance. Background Research indicates that adult attachment strategies are predictive of adult romantic relationships, but there is less evidence linking adult romantic attachment to the ability to effectively coparent. Furthermore, much of the prior coparenting literature has focused on direct paths and has not accounted for mutual influence within parental dyads, despite an increased awareness of the interdependence among familial roles and a push to understand familywide dynamics. Method A community sample of 86 heterosexual couples with a residential child between 8 and 11 years of age completed the Experiences in Close Relationships Scale, the Dyadic Adjustment Scale, and the Coparenting Scale as part of a larger study on family processes in middle childhood. Multilevel models were conducted utilizing the actor‐partner interdependence model. Results Compared to their low attachment anxiety counterparts, spouses with higher attachment anxiety and avoidance reported lower levels of marital adjustment, less coparenting cooperation, and more coparenting conflict. Findings indicated that marital adjustment mediates the relationship between romantic attachment style and perceptions of coparenting. Conclusion Results highlight the benefit of conceptualizing parental attachment, marital, and coparental subsystems within a systemic framework and suggest that a healthy marital relationship is an important intervening factor that helps explain links between attachment security and the coparenting alliance. Implications Findings underscore the importance of evaluating and treating multiple levels of the family system and suggest that therapeutic treatment of the marital relationship may be associated with a healthier coparenting dynamic.
    July 21, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12245   open full text
  • Associations Between Economic Pressure and Diabetes Efficacy in Couples with Type 2 Diabetes.
    Joshua R. Novak, Jared R. Anderson, Matthew D. Johnson, Ann Walker, Allison Wilcox, Virginia L. Lewis, David C. Robbins.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. July 19, 2017
    Objective The purpose of this study was to explore dyadic associations between economic pressure and diabetes self‐efficacy via emotional distress in patients with type 2 diabetes and their partners. Background Understanding how economic pressure is associated with successful diabetes management is an important area for research, as couples with type 2 diabetes can incur heavy economic pressures that could likely influence diabetes outcomes. Method Data from 117 married couples were used to test actor–partner associations using moderated mediation analyses in a structural equation modeling framework. Problem‐solving communication was tested as a possible moderator of the economic pressure–emotional distress pathway. Results Results revealed that greater patient economic pressure was associated with lower patient and spouse confidence in the patient's diabetes management ability through higher levels of patient emotional distress. The deleterious association between economic pressure and emotional distress was less pronounced when spouses reported more effective problem‐solving communication. Conclusion These results provide evidence that the economic pressure couples with type 2 diabetes face may reduce the patient and spouse's confidence in the patient's diabetes management ability. Implications This study demonstrates the importance of couple's relationship processes in buffering the impact of economic pressure on diabetes management, providing a clear target for intervention and education efforts.
    July 19, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12246   open full text
  • The Spillover of Child‐Related Stress into Parents' Relationship Mediated by Couple Communication.
    Martina Zemp, Fridtjof W. Nussbeck, E. Mark Cummings, Guy Bodenmann.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. July 11, 2017
    Objective The present study examines the impact of parents' perceptions of child‐related stress on observed couple communication and their self‐reported relationship satisfaction. Background A considerable body of evidence indicates that challenges related to raising children can negatively affect parents' interactions and relationship satisfaction. Although some potentially underlying mechanisms have been explored in previous research, questions about the potential effect of child‐related stress on the interparental relationship remain open. Method Parents' perceptions of child‐related stress and relationship satisfaction were assessed in a convenience sample of 118 parental couples living in Switzerland. Additionally, the couples participated in a conflict conversation task to obtain an observational measure of couples' communication quality. Data were analyzed with an actor–partner interdependence mediation model. Results Child‐related stress among parents was directly linked to lower relationship satisfaction in both partners and one partner's child‐related stress was associated with the other partner's communication quality. The mediation analysis revealed that high levels of child‐related stress were linked with relationship satisfaction by impairing the other partner's communication quality. Conclusion The study suggests that child‐related stress is among the challenges that may impair parents' relationship quality, partially mediated through worsened couple communication. Implications The findings support the potential benefits of prevention programs aimed at reducing child‐related stress and enhancing couple coping skills for maintaining parents' relationship satisfaction over time.
    July 11, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12244   open full text
  • Intersectionality and Perceptions About Sexual Assault Education and Reporting on College Campuses.
    Meredith G. F. Worthen, Samantha A. Wallace.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. May 16, 2017
    A mixed‐methods design with an intersectional feminist framework was used with 1,899 students at a large Southern university to critically examine (a) how students view the issue of sexual assault on their own campus, (b) how they perceive the status of reporting sexual assault to campus officials, and (c) how they are responding overall to a campus‐wide sexual assault education program. Some privileged groups, especially heterosexual men, were less informed than others about sexual assault and less supportive of campus sexual assault education. In contrast, some marginalized groups, including lesbian, gay, and bisexual students, perceived campus sexual assault to be a more serious issue than did other groups, but they were also most critical of heteronormative biases in most campus programing. Non‐White students were most supportive of sexual assault education. Empirically driven implications for campus sexual assault programs are provided.
    May 16, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12240   open full text
  • Confronting Myths About Sexual Assault: A Feminist Analysis of the False Report Literature.
    Dana A. Weiser.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. May 16, 2017
    Inaccurate beliefs that women commonly lie about sexual assault and target innocent men are pervasive in the United States, particularly on college and university campuses. Research consistently demonstrates that false reports of sexual assault account for less than 10% of reported cases and that individuals are unlikely to be wrongly accused of sexual assault. Thus, to pursue justice on campuses and beyond, family scholars must challenge misinformation about false reports in their teaching and scholarship to shift the narrative away from these prevalent and harmful rape myths. Doing so will allow for a more comprehensive and informed dialogue about how to address sexual assault on university campuses. This article offers a feminist analysis of the issue, clearly delineates the definition of a false report, critically reviews the false report literature, and presents suggestions for educational efforts by family professionals.
    May 16, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12235   open full text
  • From Furious to Fearless: Faculty Action and Feminist Praxis in Response to Rape Culture on College Campuses.
    Elizabeth A. Sharp, Dana A. Weiser, Don E. Lavigne, R. Corby Kelly.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. May 16, 2017
    In this article, we (four faculty members) draw on a specific rape‐promoting incident on our campus as a case study for feminist faculty responses to civil rights issues on college campuses. We critically examine the incident and share our multipronged response as faculty members. In so doing, we highlight interdisciplinary activism, the importance of strong visual presence of feminist faculty activism on campus, as well as our challenges and dilemmas. As a call to arms, we hope this article inspires other faculty to recognize their power and to take incisive action on their respective campuses.
    May 16, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12238   open full text
  • A Feminist Analysis of Campus Sexual Assault Policies: Results from a National Sample.
    Tara N. Richards, Kathryn A. Branch, Ruth E. Fleury‐Steiner, Katherine Kafonek.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. May 16, 2017
    Institutions of higher education (IHEs) in the United States are obligated to address sexual assault on campus under the Clery Act and Title IX, and a recent surge in societal interest in sexual assault among college students has prompted many IHEs to bolster their response. Little systematic information exists about IHEs' sexual assault policies and services and whether they align with feminist‐based models of advocacy. This study examined annual security reports and student handbooks and codes of conduct for a nationally representative sample of 4‐year IHEs (N = 387) and assessed IHEs' responses to sexual assault on college campuses through the lens of a feminist‐based organizational model. Findings indicate that policies for the sampled IHEs include a mean of 12 of 17 policy components' aligned with feminist models, and 4% of sampled IHEs include all 17 components. Implications for improving IHEs' responses to sexual assault in ways consistent with feminist models are discussed.
    May 16, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12236   open full text
  • Sisterhood and Sexual Assault: Engaging Sorority Members in Dialogue, Critical Analysis, and Feminist Praxis.
    M. Elise Radina.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. May 16, 2017
    Taking a feminist pedagogy and praxis approach, I present a course model for engaging sorority members in critical analysis and feminist praxis around the issue of campus rape culture. This course model responds to two problems: (a) the prevailing disconnect between the efforts of departments of student affairs and academic affairs and (b) the untapped potential that faculty members with sorority or fraternity affiliations have as change agents by identifying themselves publically on campus. The resulting course provides a women‐only space where issues such as sexual assault can be analyzed, critiqued, and challenged in ways that incorporate the nuances within Greek subcultures on university campuses. Such courses may provide students with the intellectual space to challenge campus issues such as campus rape culture as well as empower them to engage in feminist praxis as change agents.
    May 16, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12234   open full text
  • The Abuse Litmus Test: A Classroom Tool to Assess Power and Control in On‐Screen Relationships.
    Amy E. Bonomi, Asia A. Eaton, Julianna M. Nemeth, Tameka L. Gillum.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. May 16, 2017
    Despite university efforts and recent evidence‐based interventions to reduce campus sexual assault, few systematic approaches have addressed how media depictions of sex and romance that inundate young adults via popular culture help to develop and sustain attitudes and behaviors that tolerate sexual abuse and intimate partner violence as normative. We introduce a feminist‐informed pedagogical tool—drawing from the Duluth Power and Control Wheel and the Women's Experience with Battering Framework—to facilitate college students' decoding of relationship power, control, and harm in popular film, including dynamics relevant to sexual assault. We include step‐by‐step instructions for implementing the tool in classroom settings, including estimated duration, script, sample films, discussion questions, and debriefing procedures (including linking to campus assault dynamics).
    May 16, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12237   open full text
  • Why Sexual Assault Survivors Do Not Report to Universities: A Feminist Analysis.
    Chelsea Spencer, Allen Mallory, Michelle Toews, Sandra Stith, Leila Wood.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. May 16, 2017
    The present study analyzed responses from 220 female survivors of sexual assault at a U.S. college campus. Guided by feminist thought, we used thematic analysis to analyze survivors' reasons for not reporting their sexual assault to university officials. Drawing on participants' own words, the most common reasons for not reporting included “It was not a big enough deal,” “I didn't know who to report to or that I could report,” “It wasn't related to the university,” “I was afraid,” “Because I was drunk,” “Too ashamed to report,” “I didn't want to get him in trouble,” and “Felt as if I would be blamed for putting myself in the situation.” We conducted a series of binary logistic regressions to determine which demographic and experiential variables were associated with the thematic reason(s) for not reporting. In the spirit of feminist praxis, we offer implications for universities to remove barriers for reporting sexual violence.
    May 16, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12241   open full text
  • Feminist Research with Student Activists: Enhancing Campus Sexual Assault Research.
    Kathleen H. Krause, Stephanie S. Miedema, Rebecca Woofter, Kathryn M. Yount.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. May 16, 2017
    Addressing sexual assault on university and college campuses in the United States is a national priority. To date, research on campus sexual assault overwhelmingly focuses on students as objects of study: as survivors, perpetrators, and bystanders of sexual assault. This focus has largely overlooked students who act as agents of change, mobilizing to alter campus norms around consent, prevention, survivor support, and institutional response. In this article, we encourage feminist scholars to incorporate students as advocates against sexual assault and to invite students to be collaborators in research. We discuss a student‐led organization and our ongoing collaborative study with the organization to illustrate how feminist researchers can feature student engagement with campus sexual assault at the grass roots. We conclude with recommendations to expand the national research agenda on campus sexual assault.
    May 16, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12239   open full text
  • Lights, Camera, Activism: Using a Film Series to Generate Feminist Dialogue About Campus Sexual Violence.
    John B. K. Purcell, C. Rebecca Oldham, Dana A. Weiser, Elizabeth A. Sharp.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. April 21, 2017
    We examine the use of an interdisciplinary film series, “2015 Sexism | Cinema: 50 Years on the Silver Screen,” as a space for discussion where attendees can discover allies, express critical thought, and advance their thinking. A film series is a useful response to the widespread problem of campus sexual assault in three critical ways: (a) a theater provides an informal, recreational space for discussion of feminist thought; (b) the content of the films highlights the insidious nature of sexual violence and gender inequality in our culture; and (c) there exists a degree of separation that subverts defensiveness while inspiring a critical dialogue. We discuss the utility of a film series as an accessible approach to the cultural antecedents of sexual violence on college campuses. We offer our own experiences of the film series and recommend film as a feminist pedagogical tool to address sexual violence.
    April 21, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12228   open full text
  • Disenfranchisement and Ambiguity in the Face of Loss: The Suffocated Grief of Sexual Assault Survivors.
    Tashel Bordere.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. April 21, 2017
    Grief, loss, and social injustice are vital elements in the distinct yet intersecting stories of sexual assault and post‐assault survivorship. Yet survivors must frequently cope in isolation or in programs and therapeutic settings informed by literature that does not consistently account for grief and loss as central to their experiences. Utilizing a feminist framework, I review and critique literature on sexual assault survivorship and loss with focus on factors related to disenfranchisement and suffocated grief among young adult females. I also explore how these factors further complicate grief and mourning processes. Implications for socially just and culturally appropriate research and practice with bereaved sexual assault survivors are provided.
    April 21, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12231   open full text
  • From Infantilizing to World Making: Safe Spaces and Trigger Warnings on Campus.
    Katie Byron.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. April 21, 2017
    Student requests for trigger warnings and safe spaces have emerged following widespread concern over the mishandling of cases of sexual violence on college campuses. Recent media attention to such interventions has been critical, framing them as coddling students and failing to prepare them for the real world. These criticisms conflate the desire for safety with the feeling of comfort or freedom from offense or challenge. Student requests for trigger warnings and safe spaces bring trauma into the public sphere and create spaces in academic settings for students to exist without expectations that they are fully healed. This article examines student requests for safe spaces or trigger warnings in the United States in discussions about trauma and healing in academia and shifts the dialogue to provide a queer feminist theoretical framework for understanding these requests as world‐making projects that provide an account of public trauma and a sense of collective vulnerability.
    April 21, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12233   open full text
  • Feminist Agency, Sexual Scripts, and Sexual Violence: Developing a Model for Postgendered Family Communication.
    Kelly R. Rossetto, Andrew C. Tollison.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. April 21, 2017
    We explore the interrelated research on intersectionality, feminist agency, script theory, and gender socialization to uncover the ways in which college students may experience institutionalized sexual scripts and perceptions of agency in sexual encounters. We theorize that changes at the family level could ultimately help create a shift in a campus culture that has become entrenched, with biased sexual scripts that lead to power imbalances and sexual violence. With underpinnings of social role theory and modeling, this article develops a model of postgendered family communication. Practical family communication suggestions based on the model are provided for parents and family educators that could help shift sexual scripts, enable feminist agency, and improve rates of sexual assault incidence and reporting at the institutional level.
    April 21, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12232   open full text
  • Scripting Sexual Consent: Internalized Traditional Sexual Scripts and Sexual Consent Expectancies Among College Students.
    Stacey J. T. Hust, Kathleen Boyce Rodgers, Benjamin Bayly.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. April 11, 2017
    College students are at a relatively high risk for both sexual assault victimization and perpetration, and understanding sexual consent is imperative to reduce the incidence of sexual assault. Informed by the interactionist perspective of feminist theory, we surveyed 447 undergraduate students to identify factors associated with heterosexual college students' expectancies related to sexual consent. Women who believed in sexual stereotypes and endorsed music that degrades women were less likely than other women to expect to engage in healthy negotiation of sexual consent. Men who were confident that they could avoid perpetrating nonsexual, physical interpersonal violence were statistically more likely to report practicing healthy negotiation of sexual consent. These results indicate that it is important for practitioners to consider individuals' sexual stereotypes in the prevention of interpersonal sexual violence.
    April 11, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12230   open full text
  • Dyadic and Triadic Family Interactions as Simultaneous Predictors of Children's Externalizing Behaviors.
    Sarah E. Murphy, Erin Boyd‐Soisson, Deborah B. Jacobvitz, Nancy L. Hazen.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 10, 2017
    The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between dyadic and triadic family interactions and their association with the development of children's externalizing behaviors. Data were obtained from a longitudinal study of family interactions (N = 125), followed from before parents had their first child until children were 7 years old. Family interactions (marital, father–child, mother–child, and triadic mother–father–child) were observed in separate interaction tasks when children were 24 months old as predictors of children's externalizing behaviors at age 7 (n = 71 children). Results demonstrated that the triadic measure of competitive coparenting and the dyadic mother–child interaction characterized by negative emotional socialization related to children's later externalizing behavior, even after controlling for covariates and effects of all other family interaction variables. Results emphasize the importance of examining the family holistically and provided new information for designing more effective whole‐family interventions to reduce the development of children's externalizing behaviors.
    March 10, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12225   open full text
  • The Experiences of Sexual Minority Mothers with Trans* Children.
    Katherine A. Kuvalanka, Samuel H. Allen, Cat Munroe, Abbie E. Goldberg, Judith L. Weiner.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 10, 2017
    Eight nonheterosexual (i.e., bisexual, lesbian, bi/pansexual) mothers with trans* children between 6 and 11 years of age participated in semistructured interviews in which they discussed the intersections of their own sexual minority identities with their children's gender identities or expressions. Transfamily theory was utilized to understand how heteronormativity and cisnormativity operated in these families' lives. Initial lack of awareness among most of the mothers regarding trans* identities, as well as efforts by some to curb their children's gender expressions, paralleled previous reports on primarily heterosexual parents with trans* children. Having sexual minority identities and experience with LGBTQ communities was beneficial for some mothers but seemingly disadvantageous for others, in that some experienced blame for their children's trans* statuses, often due to the fact that these mothers identified as queer themselves. Findings reveal complexities in how participants were influenced by heteronormativity and cisnormativity and have implications for those looking to learn more about queer parents' experiences raising their trans* children.
    March 10, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12226   open full text
  • Many Mornings After: Campus Sexual Assault and Feminist Politics.
    Janice Haaken.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 10, 2017
    In 1994, the feminist journalist Katie Roiphe published a book titled The Morning After in which she argues that the women's movement had become obsessed with victimization. With many of her case examples centered on campus sexual politics, Roiphe laments college women's demands for the very forms of patriarchal protections that second‐wave feminists fought to overturn. In the two decades since the publication of this book, campus activists have gained considerable ground in bringing sexual assault into public awareness, insisting (contra Roiphe) that victims have been all too silent. This article presents an appraisal of this historical legacy and draws out key lessons to be learned from the history of feminist organizing around sexual assault on campuses. The author explains how radical, liberal, and socialist feminist politics offer different lenses for framing sexual assault and discusses the value of a psychoanalytic feminist optics for thinking through dilemmas at the level of political practice.
    March 10, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12227   open full text
  • Teaching Undergraduates About LGBTQ Identities, Families, and Intersectionality.
    Abbie E. Goldberg, Katherine R. Allen.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 10, 2017
    Teaching undergraduate students about LGBTQ identities and family issues presents several challenges, or “opportunities,” which we address within personal, ecological, and historical contexts. We begin by articulating our positionality as scholars and instructors, and the feminist intersectional and queer lens that guides our research and pedagogy. We organize our presentation of contemporary teaching opportunities around three primary and interrelated topics: (a) teaching about LGBTQ issues with attention to intersectionality as a conceptual framework, (b) teaching about sexual orientation diversity and fluidity, and (c) teaching about gender diversity and transgender identities. We incorporate suggestions for educational practice throughout and recommend that instructors continually revise their teaching practices to reflect the changing technological and social landscape, thus maximizing opportunities for student engagement and learning.
    March 10, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12224   open full text
  • Parent–Child Estrangement: Conditions for Disclosure and Perceived Social Network Member Reactions.
    Kristina M. Scharp.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. January 17, 2017
    Disclosing a family disruption like estrangement might be an important first step in garnering supportive communication, yet disclosure also might come with costs. Grounded in the disclosure literatures, this study illuminates the conditions under which adult children disclose estrangement from parents to their social networks and the perceived reactions of social network members to such disclosures. Findings from a thematic analysis of 52 narrative interviews reveal that adult children go to great lengths to keep their estrangement private, but disclose (a) when others witnessed conflict, (b) when asked, (c) when disclosure was indirect, and (d) when (they perceived) it would benefit others. Reactions to disclosure were rarely ambivalent, and adult children primarily felt unsupported by their network. Practical applications are discussed.
    January 17, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12219   open full text
  • African American Extended Family and Church‐Based Social Network Typologies.
    Ann W. Nguyen, Linda M. Chatters, Robert Joseph Taylor.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. January 17, 2017
    We examined social network typologies among African American adults and their sociodemographic correlates. Network types were derived from indicators of the family and church networks. Latent class analysis was based on a nationally representative sample of African Americans from the National Survey of American Life. Results indicated four distinct network types: ambivalent, optimal, family centered, and strained. These four types were distinguished by (a) degree of social integration, (b) network composition, and (c) level of negative interactions. In a departure from previous work, a network type composed solely of nonkin was not identified, which may reflect racial differences in social network typologies. Further, the analysis indicated that network types varied by sociodemographic characteristics. Social network typologies have several promising practice implications, as they can inform the development of prevention and intervention programs.
    January 17, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12218   open full text
  • Renegotiating Nonresidential Father–Child Relationships During Emerging Adulthood.
    Richard Feistman, Tyler Jamison, Marilyn Coleman, Lawrence Ganong.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. January 17, 2017
    Father–child relationships tend to decrease in quality and closeness following parental divorce, yet little is known about how these relationships evolve in response to normative developmental changes in children. We conducted a grounded theory study of how 33 emerging adults maintained or changed their relationships with their nonresidential fathers during the transition to adulthood. In‐depth interviews revealed that some father–child relationships were unchanged by divorce, but most became more distant immediately following parental separation. During emerging adulthood these relationships did not necessarily become closer, but communication often increased and stressful interactions decreased for some, especially when compared to childhood. The findings suggest that normative changes that accompany emerging adulthood (e.g., leaving home, gaining new insight about themselves and their families) may facilitate renewed connections between previously distant nonresidential fathers and children.
    January 17, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12223   open full text
  • Intimate Partner Violence, Maternal Gatekeeping, and Child Conduct Problems.
    Bharathi J. Zvara, W. Roger Mills‐Koonce, Martha Cox,.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. January 17, 2017
    We examined the mediating role of parenting behavior on the relationship between intimate partner violence and child conduct problems, as well as the moderating role of maternal gatekeeping to these associations. The sample (N = 395) is from a longitudinal study of rural poverty in the eastern United States exploring the ways in which child, family, and contextual factors shape child development over time. Study findings indicate that a father's harsh–intrusive parenting behavior may be a key mediating pathway linking intimate partner violence and child conduct problems. Study findings further provide evidence for problematic outcomes for children when mothers encourage fathers with high levels of harsh–intrusive parenting to interact with their children.
    January 17, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12221   open full text
  • Parent–Adolescent Relationship Factors and Adolescent Outcomes Among High‐Risk Families.
    Mathew C. Withers, Lenore M. McWey, Mallory Lucier‐Greer.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. January 17, 2017
    Using a stress‐process and attachment theory framework, we identified salient aspects of the parent–adolescent relationship and tested the extent to which those aspects were longitudinally associated with depression, withdrawal, delinquency, and aggressive behavior outcomes among a sample of high‐risk adolescents (N = 498). First, four dimensions of the parent–adolescent relationship were identified: emotional closeness, communication, autonomy, and conflict. Next, latent profile analyses were conducted, and four distinct parent–adolescent relationship profiles emerged: secure, avoidant, anxious, and detached. Adolescent outcomes were assessed 2 years later. Results indicated that (a) adolescents in the avoidant and anxious profiles demonstrated higher depression symptoms than did those in the secure profile, (b) higher levels of aggression were demonstrated in the avoidant profile, and (c) higher levels of delinquency were demonstrated in the detached profile. Implications for parent–adolescent relationships and family therapy interventions are provided.
    January 17, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12220   open full text
  • A Person‐Oriented Analysis of Couple and Relationship Education.
    Devin G. DuPree, Jason B. Whiting, Steven M. Harris.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. January 17, 2017
    Couple and relationship education (CRE) has effectively improved communication and relationship satisfaction, but some question its effectiveness for couples who are at risk. Mixed findings may derive from focusing on aggregated sample results. This study explored the benefit of using a person‐oriented analysis for evaluating CRE program effectiveness with low‐income couples and individuals. Couple participants reported moderate improvement in communication and relationship satisfaction, but the magnitude of reported improvement varied for male participants from different ethnic groups. An outcomes‐focused cluster analysis showed that variance in reported improvement can be explained by pre‐workshop outcome measures, with couples starting in the middle range of scores reporting the most improvement. Similar patterns were found for individual participants. Researchers and practitioners should further investigate the use of person‐oriented methods in CRE program evaluation and the use of pre‐workshop assessments to adjust CRE interventions on the basis of the state of participants' relationships at intake.
    January 17, 2017   doi: 10.1111/fare.12222   open full text
  • Dads Tuning In to Kids: Preliminary Evaluation of a Fathers' Parenting Program.
    Katherine R. Wilson, Sophie S. Havighurst, Christiane Kehoe, Ann E. Harley.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. November 16, 2016
    We investigated outcomes of Dads Tuning In to Kids, a new seven‐session group program targeting paternal emotion‐socialization practices, which are related to children's social and emotional functioning. In a randomized control trial with 162 fathers of children between 3 and 6 years of age, intervention fathers (n = 87) and waitlist control fathers (n = 75) completed questionnaires at baseline (pre‐program) and 10 weeks later (post‐program). Compared to control fathers, intervention fathers statistically increased in empathy, encouragement of emotion expression, and parenting efficacy, and decreased in emotion‐dismissing beliefs, dismissive reactions to children's negative emotions, and hostile parenting responses. They also reported improved child behavior. These findings offer preliminary support for this program for fathers.
    November 16, 2016   doi: 10.1111/fare.12216   open full text
  • Daily Poverty‐Related Stress and Coping: Associations with Child Learned Helplessness.
    Eleanor D. Brown, Mariam D. Seyler, Andrea M. Knorr, Mallory L. Garnett, Jean‐Philippe Laurenceau.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. November 16, 2016
    This study examined daily poverty‐related stress and parents' efforts to help children cope with stress in relation to learned helplessness for young children attending a Head Start preschool. A total of 750 telephone interviews were conducted with 75 parents concerning their daily stressors and strategies they used to help children cope. A behavioral protocol measured child learned helplessness. Multilevel modeling showed a positive within‐persons relationship between daily stress and coping, and a positive between‐persons relationship between daily stress and child learned helplessness. Implications include understanding the daily processes through which the poverty ecology transmits risk for negative child developmental outcomes and through which parents might offer protection. Specifically, the results suggest that daily poverty‐related stressors may undermine young children's developing sense of control and suggest the importance of further research on how parent coping might promote positive outcomes.
    November 16, 2016   doi: 10.1111/fare.12217   open full text
  • Communication Structures of Supplemental Voluntary Kin Relationships.
    Dawn O. Braithwaite, Jenna Stephenson Abetz, Julia Moore, Katie Brockhage.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. November 16, 2016
    Although scholars have constructed typologies of voluntary (fictive) kin, few have considered challenges and opportunities of interaction and relationships between biolegal and voluntary kin. This study focused on one type of voluntary kin, supplemental voluntary kin, relationships that often arise because of differing values, underperformed roles, or physical distance from the biolegal family, and wherein relationships are maintained with biolegal and voluntary kin. We examined how these family systems are constructed via interactions in relational triads of “linchpin” persons between biolegal family and voluntary kin. From in‐depth interviews with 36 supplemental voluntary kin, we examined themes in the linchpins' discourse surrounding the interaction, rituals, and ideal relationship between biolegal family and voluntary kin. We constructed a typology of four relational triads representing these relationships: intertwined, limited, separate, and hostile. We describe the structure and communication within each type, and implications for helping families with these triangulated voluntary kin relationships.
    November 16, 2016   doi: 10.1111/fare.12215   open full text
  • Can We Fix This? Parent–Child Repair Processes and Preschoolers' Regulatory Skills.
    Christine J. Kemp, Erika Lunkenheimer, Erin C. Albrecht, Deborah Chen.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. September 16, 2016
    The repair of difficult parent–child interactions is a marker of healthy functioning in infancy, but less is known about repair processes during early childhood. We used dynamic systems methods to investigate dyadic repair in mothers and their 3‐year‐old children (N = 96) and its prediction of children's emotion regulation and behavior problems at a 4‐month follow‐up. Mothers and children completed free play and challenging puzzle tasks. Repair was operationalized as the conditional probability of moving into a dyadic adaptive behavior region after individual or dyadic maladaptive behavior (e.g., child noncompliance, parental criticism). Overall, dyads repaired approximately half their maladaptive behaviors. A greater likelihood of repair during the puzzle task predicted better child emotion regulation and fewer behavior problems in preschool. Results suggest dyadic repair is an important process in early childhood and provide further evidence for the connection between parent–child coregulation and children's developing regulatory capacities. Implications for family‐based interventions are discussed.
    September 16, 2016   doi: 10.1111/fare.12213   open full text
  • Does Paid Maternity Leave Affect Infant Development and Second‐Birth Intentions?
    Woosang Hwang, Eunjoo Jung.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. September 16, 2016
    Given the economic implications of a low‐fertility rate, many countries have implemented paid maternity leave to promote births. However, the efficacy of this policy is mostly unknown. We examined whether paid maternity leave in South Korea, which has a fertility rate among the lowest in the world, is directly related to infant development and employed mothers' second‐birth intentions, and indirectly associated with these outcomes via parenting stress. Participants included 315 married and employed Korean mothers in the months after giving birth to their first child. Paid maternity leave was beneficial for infant development but was not a solution for promoting second‐birth intentions among employed mothers in Korea. Parenting stress adversely affected both infant development and employed mothers' second‐birth intentions, and it may therefore need to be considered as work–family policies, fertility issues, and infant development in families are addressed. Implications considering cultural and familial contexts are discussed.
    September 16, 2016   doi: 10.1111/fare.12214   open full text
  • Boundary Ambiguity and Ambivalence in Military Family Reintegration.
    William‐Glenn L. Hollingsworth, Megan L. Dolbin‐MacNab, Lydia I. Marek.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. August 30, 2016
    Although more than 2 million service members have experienced deployment since 2001, predictors of postdeployment family functioning remain unclear. Utilizing the Contextual Model of Family Stress (Boss, 2002), this study examined military‐related factors (e.g., rank, component, combat exposure, postdeployment time at home, cumulative length of deployments), boundary ambiguity, and family‐ and deployment‐related ambivalence as predictors of family functioning during reintegration. Service members (N = 228) from multiple branches of the U.S. military participated in a national survey related to family relationships and support programming. Hierarchical regression analyses revealed that service members from lower ranks, who were home for longer periods of time, and who endorsed higher degrees of boundary ambiguity and family‐related ambivalence reported poorer family functioning. Results emphasize the relevance of boundary ambiguity and family‐related ambivalence to the reintegration process and can inform prevention and intervention efforts that promote family well‐being in the military population during the critical postdeployment period.
    August 30, 2016   doi: 10.1111/fare.12207   open full text
  • A Comparison of Three Online Recruitment Strategies for Engaging Parents.
    Jodi Dworkin, Heather Hessel, Kate Gliske, Jessie H. Rudi.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. August 26, 2016
    Family scientists can face the challenge of effectively and efficiently recruiting normative samples of parents and families. Utilizing the Internet to recruit parents is a strategic way to find participants where they already are, enabling researchers to overcome many of the barriers to in‐person recruitment. The present study was designed to compare three online recruitment strategies for recruiting parents: e‐mail Listservs, Facebook, and Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk). Analyses revealed differences in the effectiveness and efficiency of data collection. In particular, MTurk resulted in the most demographically diverse sample, in a short period of time, with little cost. Listservs reached a large number of participants and resulted in a comparatively homogeneous sample. Facebook was not successful in recruiting a general sample of parents. Findings provide information that can help family researchers and practitioners be intentional about recruitment strategies and study design.
    August 26, 2016   doi: 10.1111/fare.12206   open full text
  • Race as a Moderator of Associations Between Spanking and Child Outcomes.
    Elizabeth T. Gershoff, Andrew Grogan‐Kaylor.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. August 24, 2016
    The cultural normativeness perspective argues that parenting practices such as spanking are more beneficial for children when they occur in cultural groups within which they are normative. Research on this issue in the United States has focused on race as a marker of culture, and findings have been mixed. The present study presents meta‐analyses of five studies that reported effect sizes separately for White (n = 11,814) and Black (n = 3,065) American children (5 to 14 years of age). Mean weighted effect sizes for both groups indicated statistically significant associations with detrimental outcomes; they were not statistically significantly different from one another. Contrary to the cultural normativeness perspective, these results demonstrate that spanking is similarly associated with detrimental outcomes for White and Black children in the United States.
    August 24, 2016   doi: 10.1111/fare.12205   open full text
  • Framework for Best Practices in Family Life Education: A Case Example.
    Sharon M. Ballard, Lisa E. Tyndall, Eboni J. Baugh, Carrie Bumgarner Bergeson, Kerry Littlewood.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. August 19, 2016
    Evidence‐based programming (EBP) in family life education is in high demand because it has a higher likelihood of achieving desired outcomes than non‐evidence‐based programming. Although EBP can promote program sustainability and fidelity, the implementation of EBP in real‐world settings can be challenging. Practitioners sometimes struggle with identifying the best way to adapt EBP to fit their needs. In this article, the Positive Parenting Program (Triple P) is used to provide an in‐depth case example of adapting and implementing EBP through the lens of Ballard and Taylor's (2012) Framework for Best Practices in Family Life Education. The authors outline framework elements that guided this adaptation, such as consideration of context and culture, program content and format, program design, and the role of the family life educator. Suggestions are provided for employing this framework to overcome barriers to implementation and ultimately increase program sustainability to improve the lives of families.
    August 19, 2016   doi: 10.1111/fare.12200   open full text
  • The Role of Relational Instability on Individual and Partner Outcomes Following Couple Relationship Education Participation.
    Julianne McGill, Francesca Adler‐Baeder, Angela B. Bradford, Jennifer Kerpelman, Scott A. Ketring, Donna Sollie.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. August 12, 2016
    Some scholars have suggested that distressed populations may benefit more from couple and relationship education (CRE) than do their nondistressed counterparts. We examined this hypothesis using actor–partner interdependence models to explore the relationship between baseline relational instability and change for individuals and their partners (379 couples; 758 individuals) who participated in a CRE program for 6 to 8 weeks. Findings indicated that a higher level of relational instability on the part of women was associated with greater positive change in depressive symptoms. Furthermore, respondents' and partners' baseline relational instability moderated the change in women's couple quality, such that women reported greater positive change in relationship quality when reporting higher instability and higher relationship quality before CRE participation, and when their partners reported higher instability and lower quality before CRE participation. Men appear to benefit from CRE participation regardless of baseline relational instability. Suggestions for researchers and facilitators are discussed.
    August 12, 2016   doi: 10.1111/fare.12201   open full text
  • Pathways to Adaptive Emotion Regulation Among Adolescents from Low‐Income Families.
    Michael M. Criss, Amanda Sheffield Morris, Elisabeth Ponce‐Garcia, Lixian Cui, Jennifer S. Silk.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. August 12, 2016
    The current study examined pathways to adolescent anger and sadness regulation in low‐income families. The sample included 206 families with adolescents age 10–18 years. Using a multimethod, multi‐informant approach, we assessed neighborhood violence, mutual emotional support, parental emotion coaching, and anger and sadness regulation. The findings indicated that high levels of mutual emotional support and emotion coaching and low levels of neighborhood violence were correlated with adolescent emotion regulation. In addition, the analyses demonstrated multiple pathways to emotion regulation. Specifically, neighborhood violence was directly and indirectly related to anger and sadness regulation. Moreover, mutual emotional support was indirectly related to emotion regulation via emotion coaching. Overall, there was little evidence of adolescent sex and age differences in the model. Implications regarding the socialization of adolescent emotion regulation are discussed.
    August 12, 2016   doi: 10.1111/fare.12202   open full text
  • Older Adult Descriptions of Living Apart Together.
    Jacquelyn J. Benson, Marilyn Coleman.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. August 12, 2016
    Much can be learned about the nature and meaning of close relationships by studying language use. This qualitative study explores the process of defining relationships and choosing partner reference terms among an understudied population—living apart together (LAT) couples in older adulthood. Twenty‐five men and women aged 60 years and older were interviewed about their LAT relationships. Grounded theory analyses demonstrated that participants chose terms by trial and error through a process of meaning making. Terms associated with youth culture (e.g., girlfriend, boyfriend) were spurned, although they were commonly used for lack of age‐appropriate alternatives. Participants defined LAT by drawing contrasts to dating and marital relationships. Practical implications and future directions for research are discussed.
    August 12, 2016   doi: 10.1111/fare.12203   open full text
  • Behavior Problems Among Adolescents Exposed to Family and Community Violence in Chile.
    Julie Ma, Andrew Grogan‐Kaylor, Jorge Delva.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. August 11, 2016
    Research that simultaneously examines the relationship of multiple types of family and community violence with adolescent outcomes is limited in the previous research literature, particularly in Latin America. This study examines the relationship of adolescent exposure to family and community violence—parental use of corporal punishment, violence in the community, intimate partner physical aggression—with eight subscales of the Youth Self Report among a Chilean sample of 593 adolescent–mother pairs. Results from multilevel models indicated a positive association between adolescent exposure to violence in the family and community, and a wide range of behavior problem outcomes, in particular, aggression. With growing evidence concerning the detrimental effect of violence on adolescent well‐being, these findings emphasize the need for a more comprehensive understanding of the various kinds of violence adolescents are exposed to within the family and community and the concomitant need to reduce multiple forms of violence.
    August 11, 2016   doi: 10.1111/fare.12199   open full text
  • Measuring Cultural Socialization Attitudes and Behaviors of Mexican‐Origin Mothers with Young Children: A Longitudinal Investigation.
    Chelsea L. Derlan, Adriana J. Umaña‐Taylor, Russell B. Toomey, Laudan B. Jahromi, Kimberly A. Updegraff.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. August 04, 2016
    We describe the development and psychometric testing of the Cultural Socialization Behaviors Measure (CSBM) and the Cultural Socialization Attitudes Measure (CSAM). The CSBM assesses cultural socialization behaviors that parents use with young children, and the CSAM assesses the attitudes that parents have regarding the importance of socializing their young children about their culture. Both measures demonstrated strong reliability, validity, and cross‐language equivalence (i.e., Spanish and English) among a sample of 204 Mexican‐origin young mothers (Mage = 20.94 years, SD = 1.01) with 4‐year‐old children. In addition, the measures demonstrated longitudinal equivalence when children were 4 and 5 years of age.
    August 04, 2016   doi: 10.1111/fare.12196   open full text
  • Moving Beyond Fatherhood Involvement: The Association Between Father–Child Relationship Quality and Youth Delinquency Trajectories.
    Jamie R. Yoder, Daniel Brisson, Amy Lopez.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. July 29, 2016
    The effect of nonresidential father relationship characteristics on delinquency trajectories among low‐income youth (N = 799) was examined using data from the Three Cities Study, a longitudinal study of mothers and their children eligible for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families in Boston, Chicago, and San Antonio. Growth curve models were employed to track delinquency trajectories and their rate of growth. Characteristics of father–child relationships (anger–alienation, trust–communication) were specified as predictors of delinquency while controlling for father involvement and family structure. Trust–communication influenced delinquency growth, but the rate of growth slowed as youth aged. Implications for programs, interventions, and policy are explored.
    July 29, 2016   doi: 10.1111/fare.12197   open full text
  • Perceived Barriers to Postdivorce Coparenting: Differences Between Men and Women and Associations with Coparenting Behaviors.
    Luke T. Russell, Jonathon J. Beckmeyer, Marilyn Coleman, Lawrence Ganong.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. July 28, 2016
    Using data from 291 divorced mothers and fathers, we compared their perceptions of how much legal‐financial, time‐logistics, and parental fitness barriers influenced their postdivorce coparenting, and we tested the associations between these barriers to postdivorce coparenting and self‐reported coparenting behaviors. Men perceived greater legal‐financial and time‐logistics barriers to postdivorce coparenting than did women, but no gender differences were found for perceived parental fitness barriers. In hierarchical regression analyses, perceived legal‐financial and parental fitness barriers were associated with mothers' coparenting behaviors; fathers' postdivorce coparenting behaviors were associated only with perceived legal‐financial barriers. Neither men's nor women's postdivorce coparenting behaviors were associated with time‐logistics barriers to postdivorce coparenting. Family professionals could support postdivorce coparents by reframing detrimental perceptions, helping parents navigate economic challenges, and providing resources or counseling for couples experiencing mental health challenges or abuse.
    July 28, 2016   doi: 10.1111/fare.12198   open full text
  • Qualities of Character That Predict Marital Well‐Being.
    H. Wallace Goddard, Jonathan R. Olson, Adam M. Galovan, David G. Schramm, James P. Marshall.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. July 28, 2016
    A growing body of literature has examined relations among qualities of character—or marital virtues—and marital outcomes. Results of past research have suggested positive relations between qualities such as generosity, kindness, and forgiveness, and marital well‐being. We expand on previous research by examining relations between three qualities of character and marital satisfaction with 1,513 respondents randomly selected from three states. Specifically, we examined the effects of participants' perceptions of their partners' humility, compassion, and positivity on their own marital satisfaction. Results indicated statistically significant, positive associations between each of these qualities and marital satisfaction, although results vary by gender. Furthermore, a statistically significant interaction effect suggested that spousal humility may be a protective factor against marital stress among women. Implications for practice and program development are discussed.
    July 28, 2016   doi: 10.1111/fare.12195   open full text
  • The Importance of Parents' Dyadic Coping for Children.
    Martina Zemp, Guy Bodenmann, Sabine Backes, Dorothee Sutter‐Stickel, Tracey A. Revenson.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. May 24, 2016
    Stress and coping in couples have received increased research attention during the past two decades, particularly with regard to how couples cope with stress. Dyadic coping has emerged as a strong predictor of relationship satisfaction. Less research has focused on the effects of dyadic coping on other outcomes or family members. In the present study, the authors addressed this gap by examining parents' dyadic coping as a predictor of children's internalizing symptoms, externalizing symptoms, and prosocial behavior in three independent studies. In Studies 1 and 2 self‐report data were used to assess parents' dyadic coping through the parents' and the children's perspective, and Study 3 included observational data on dyadic coping. Parental dyadic coping was related to children's externalizing symptoms, internalizing symptoms, and prosocial behavior, although results for the latter two outcomes were not consistent across the three studies. The findings suggest that parents' dyadic coping deserves greater consideration within the context of child development.
    May 24, 2016   doi: 10.1111/fare.12189   open full text
  • The Impact of Family Financial Investment on Perceived Parent Pressure and Child Enjoyment and Commitment in Organized Youth Sport.
    C. Ryan Dunn, Travis E. Dorsch, Michael Q. King, Kevin J. Rothlisberger.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. May 24, 2016
    Ninety percent of American youth participate in some form of organized youth sport between the ages of 5 and 18. Parent involvement in this context has recently been characterized as a potentially harmful force in parent–child relations, leading to debate regarding the appropriateness and level of parent involvement in organized youth sport. Despite the rising costs associated with youth sport participation, little empirical effort has been made to examine the potential impact of family financial investment on parent involvement and children's subsequent sport outcomes. The purpose of this study was to address how family financial investment in youth sport influences children's perceptions of parent pressure, sport enjoyment, and commitment to continued participation. Data from a national sample of 163 parent–child dyads illuminated an inverse association between family financial investment and child sport commitment, mediated by children's perceptions of parent pressure and sport enjoyment. The results indicated that family financial investment predicts child commitment through the sequential mediators of perceived parent pressure and child enjoyment. These findings draw attention to many avenues for future research on the potential link among family investment decisions, parent involvement behaviors, and child outcomes in organized youth sport, which may collectively inform the development of parent interventions for youth sport leagues, administrators, and parents.
    May 24, 2016   doi: 10.1111/fare.12193   open full text
  • The Role of Parents in Defining Collective Identity of Arab Adolescents in Israel.
    Yasmin Aboud‐Halabi, Michal Shamai.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. May 24, 2016
    Arab adolescents in Israel must form a collective identity while living in both a social context that tends to vilify their existence and in a traditional family context that generally shuns modern Israeli society. The authors examined the relationship between perceptions of parental political socialization and the formation of collective identity among 1,241 Arab adolescents living in Israel. The findings suggest that Israeli Arab adolescents' perception of parental political (religious, national Arab–Palestinian, and Israel civic) socialization is statistically associated with the collective identity of adolescents. As hypothesized, parental political socialization mediated the relationship between parent–adolescent relationship quality and adolescents' collective identity. The results indicate a correlation between parental political socialization and collective identity of adolescents. The discussion focuses on the special place of family in the social context of ethno‐religious minorities in a country where the majority perceives the minority as an enemy that endangers the existence of the state.
    May 24, 2016   doi: 10.1111/fare.12190   open full text
  • Perceived Spousal Religiosity and Marital Quality Across Racial and Ethnic Groups.
    Samuel L. Perry.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. May 24, 2016
    The relationship between the perceived religiosity of one's spouse and marital quality varies across racial and ethnic groups (i.e., Asians, Blacks, Hispanics, and non‐Hispanic Whites) in the United States. In this study, data were drawn from a nationally representative sample of married Americans (N = 1,162). Although perceived spousal religiosity predicted higher marital quality across all racial and ethnic groups, this effect was stronger for Asians, Blacks, and Hispanics than for Whites. Compared to Whites, the 3 racial and ethnic minority groups experienced a larger boost in frequency of expressive forms of love as perceived spousal religiosity increased. This effect was also found regarding marital satisfaction for Asians and Blacks relative to Whites, but not for Hispanics. Moreover, although racial and ethnic minorities tended to report lower marital quality than Whites at low levels of perceived spousal religiosity, their marital quality tended to be higher than Whites at high levels of perceived spousal religiosity. Three‐way interactions indicated that these trends hold regardless of gender.
    May 24, 2016   doi: 10.1111/fare.12192   open full text
  • Historical Oppression and Indigenous Families: Uncovering Potential Risk Factors for Indigenous Families Touched by Violence.
    Catherine E. Burnette.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. May 24, 2016
    Violence against Indigenous women in the United States is higher than for any other racial group. Indigenous women tend to rely on families for support and recovery, yet the risk factors related to Indigenous families affected by violence are unknown. Therefore, interviews from a critical ethnography were used to uncover the perspectives of Indigenous women who have experienced intimate partner violence, along with the professionals who serve them, to understand potential risk factors that create vulnerability to and impair recovery from violence. Several themes emerged from pragmatic horizon analysis of interviews with 49 Indigenous women and professionals who work with tribal members affected by violence, including family divisions and parental impairments (i.e., intergenerational patterns of absent parental figures, parental alcohol abuse, and impaired bonding). Future research should examine these potential risk factors related to families affected by violence and their connections with historical oppression.
    May 24, 2016   doi: 10.1111/fare.12191   open full text
  • Patterns of Enrollment and Engagement of Custodial Grandmothers in a Randomized Clinical Trial of Psychoeducational Interventions.
    Gregory C. Smith, Frederick Strieder, Patty Greenberg, Bert Hayslip, Julian Montoro‐Rodriguez.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. May 24, 2016
    Andersen's (2008) behavior model was used to investigate patterns of enrollment and treatment engagement among 343 custodial grandmothers who participated in a randomized clinical trial of three psychosocial interventions:(a) a behavioral parenting program, (b) a cognitive behavioral coping program, or (c) an information‐only condition. Treatment completion was superior to that typically found with birth parents, even though the grandmothers and their target grandchildren both had high levels of mental and physical health challenges. Compliance did not differ significantly by condition but was higher among grandmothers who self‐reported less positive affect, were older, and were using mental health professionals. Treatment satisfaction was highest in grandmothers who attended more treatment sessions, reported lower annual family income, had a health problem, and were using mental health professionals. The practice and policy implications of these findings are discussed, especially in terms of strategies for enhancing the engagement of custodial grandfamilies in future psychoeducational interventions.
    May 24, 2016   doi: 10.1111/fare.12194   open full text
  • The Interdependence of Relationships with Adult Children and Spouses.
    Jeong Eun Lee, Steven H. Zarit, Michael J. Rovine, Kira Birditt, Karen L. Fingerman.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 29, 2016
    Researchers have documented the interrelatedness of parent–child and marital relationships during the early parenting years, but little is known about how these two family subsystems are associated once children reach adulthood. The authors of the current study addressed this gap by examining parents' relationships with their adult children and their marital satisfaction using an actor–partner interdependence model. Participants included 197 married other‐sex couples (N = 394 individuals; range: 40–69 years of age) who had a child over age 18 years. A spillover effect was found among fathers, indicating that parent–child relationship quality was positively associated with marital satisfaction, but the same was not found for mothers. Interestingly, a negative crossover effect was also found, meaning that more negative relationship quality between mothers and their adult children was associated with lower marital satisfaction on the part of the father. These findings suggest that the interdependence between parent–child and marital relationships persist once children reach adulthood.
    March 29, 2016   doi: 10.1111/fare.12188   open full text
  • Temporal Ordering of Supportive Dyadic Coping, Commitment, and Willingness to Sacrifice.
    Matthew D. Johnson, Rebecca M. Horne.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 28, 2016
    Drawing from interdependence theory and focal participants (anchors) and their intimate partners who remained coupled at Waves 1, 3, and 5 of the German Family Panel (pairfam; N = 1,543), the authors examined the temporal ordering between anchor and partner supportive dyadic coping with anchor commitment and willingness to sacrifice for an intimate partner. Autoregressive cross‐lagged modeling analyses revealed that anchor and partner supportive dyadic coping predicted higher levels of commitment and willingness to sacrifice, and willingness to sacrifice predicted less supportive dyadic coping only for anchors. There were no longitudinal associations between commitment and willingness to sacrifice, and gender did not moderate associations among the variables.
    March 28, 2016   doi: 10.1111/fare.12187   open full text
  • Is the Gender Gap in College Enrollment Influenced by Nonmarital Birth Rates and Father Absence?
    William J. Doherty, Brian J. Willoughby, Jason L. Wilde.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. September 24, 2015
    There is considerable academic and popular concern about the increasing gender gap in higher education enrollment in the United States. Males now constitute just 43% of the postsecondary enrollment. This research focused on nonmarital birth and father absence as predictors of lower levels of college enrollment for boys versus girls. The authors present two studies. In Study 1, using population data on college attendance and nonmarital birth rates, they found a strong positive association between nonmarital birth rates and the gender gap in college enrollment 18 years later. In Study 2, they examined individual‐level data on father absence from birth and college enrollment among young adults. The results indicated that males were at greater risk than females of not attending college if they had experienced father absence from birth. Taken together, the 2 studies suggest that changes in family structure may have contributed to the widening gender gap in higher education.
    September 24, 2015   doi: 10.1111/fare.12157   open full text
  • Sibling Conversations About Dating and Sexuality: Sisters as Confidants, Sources of Support, and Mentors.
    Sarah E. Killoren, Andrea L. Roach.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 03, 2014
    Using an observational methodology to examine sibling communication, sisters (N = 28 dyads) were videotaped discussing their ideas about dating and sexuality. Social provision theory was used as a framework for the examination of roles enacted by sisters during these conversations. Inductive thematic analytic procedures were conducted, and three roles were identified: sisters as confidants, sources of support, and mentors. Older and younger sisters served as confidants and sources of support for one another, whereas older sisters were more likely to be mentors for their younger sisters than vice versa. Findings indicate the potential importance of sisters in the formation of adolescent girls' ideas about romantic relationships and sexuality, sibling communication as a socialization mechanism of sisters' similarities in romantic experiences and sexual behaviors/attitudes, and the inclusion of older sisters in prevention intervention programs focused on reducing adolescent sexual risk behaviors and promoting healthy romantic relationships and sexuality development.
    March 03, 2014   doi: 10.1111/fare.12057   open full text
  • Government‐Supported Healthy Marriage Initiatives Are Not Associated with Changes in Family Demographics: A Comment on Hawkins, Amato, and Kinghorn (2013).
    Matthew D. Johnson.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 03, 2014
    In the July 2013 issue of Family Relations, Alan J. Hawkins, Paul R. Amato, and Andrea Kinghorn examined the associations between family demographics and per capita spending on the Healthy Marriage Initiatives, concluding that the results demonstrated the potential of these initiatives for improving the lives of children. In this critique of that article, I make the following points: (1) this article was timely and important, (2) Hawkins and colleagues' conclusions were overly generous given the data they describe, and (3) Hawkins and colleagues' review of prior outcome studies on the Healthy Marriage Initiatives emphasized positive findings, deemphasized null effects, and expunged negative effects. I conclude that future discussions of the Healthy Marriage Initiatives should include dispassionate descriptions of all available data.
    March 03, 2014   doi: 10.1111/fare.12060   open full text
  • Disentangling the Associations Between Contextual Stress, Sensitive Parenting, and Children's Social Development.
    Moira R. Riley, Laura V. Scaramella, Lucy McGoron.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 03, 2014
    The impact of an accumulation of sociocontextual stress on children's social skill development was examined among 167 predominantly African American mothers and their 2‐year‐old children. Two theoretical models were considered. First, based on Rutter's (1979) cumulative risk approach, an accumulation of stress was hypothesized to moderate the impact of sensitive parenting on change in social skills such that the protective effects of sensitive parenting declined when cumulative stress reached a critical threshold. Second, based on a family stress model approach, an accumulation of stress was expected to indirectly affect social skills by way of sensitive parenting; that is, sensitive parenting was expected to explain or mediate any direct links between cumulative stress and children's social skills. Results were only consistent with the moderational hypothesis. Contrary to expectations, sensitive parenting predicted increases in social skills from age 2 to 4 only under conditions of the highest cumulative stress.
    March 03, 2014   doi: 10.1111/fare.12063   open full text
  • Childhood Poverty and the Transition to Adulthood.
    Sarah M. Kendig, Marybeth J. Mattingly, Suzanne M. Bianchi.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 03, 2014
    The authors used the Panel Study of Income Dynamics 2007 Transition to Adulthood data in combination with the 2002 Child Development Supplement to examine social class bifurcation in young adulthood. Results indicate that poor youth possibly take on adult roles “too early” at the same time that high‐income youth may be supported for a long period past their 18th birthday. Although not all evidence is consistent with this bifurcated story, childhood poverty does play a key role. Young adults from poor families establish financial independence early (e.g., contributing to family bills during adolescence, considering themselves fully responsible for their finances as young adults), whereas young adults from more affluent homes are more likely to receive financial transfers from their parents (who often help them pay for college and other expenses). These findings highlight the ways in which socioeconomic inequality in childhood can differentiate youth's experiences of adolescence and young adulthood.
    March 03, 2014   doi: 10.1111/fare.12061   open full text
  • Ethnic‐Racial Socialization and Its Correlates in Families of Black–White Biracial Children.
    Annamaria Csizmadia, Alethea Rollins, Jessica P. Kaneakua.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 03, 2014
    Child, family, and contextual correlates of ethnic‐racial socialization among U.S. families of 293 kindergarten‐age Black–White biracial children were investigated in this study. Children with one White‐identified and one Black‐identified biological parent who were enrolled in the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study‐Kindergarten Cohort participated in this study. Parents' racial identification of children, parent age, family socioeconomic status, urbanicity, and region of country predicted the likelihood of frequent ethnic‐racial socialization. Relative to their biracially and Black‐identified peers, White‐identified biracial children were less likely to have frequent discussions about ethnic‐racial heritage. Findings suggest that ethnic‐racial socialization is a prevalent parenting practice in families of young biracial children and that its frequency varies depending on child, family, and situational factors. Implications for practice are discussed.
    March 03, 2014   doi: 10.1111/fare.12062   open full text
  • Consistent and Inconsistent Contraception Among Young Women: Insights from Qualitative Interviews.
    Joanna Reed, Paula England, Krystale Littlejohn, Brooke Conroy Bass, Mónica L. Caudillo.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 03, 2014
    Qualitative interviews with young women attending community colleges were used to address why women who do not desire pregnancy vary in how consistently they use contraception. Based on our analysis of the women's sexual histories, we argue that five factors are key to promoting or discouraging consistent use of contraception: efficacy (women's ability to put an intention to contracept into practice), the actions and attitudes of male partners, being in a long‐term relationship, whether women experience side effects, and misinformation or erroneous reasoning about pregnancy risk. Variations in how these factors combine at different times in women's lives explain much about their patterns of contraceptive consistency.
    March 03, 2014   doi: 10.1111/fare.12058   open full text
  • Relationship Quality and Depressed Affect Among a Diverse Sample of Relationally Unstable Relationship Education Participants.
    Angela B. Bradford, Francesca Adler‐Baeder, Scott A. Ketring, Kristen L. Bub, Joe F. Pittman, Thomas A. Smith.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 03, 2014
    The association between depression and marital satisfaction has been clearly documented. Theoretical approaches describe the direction of effects as depression leading to marital dissatisfaction (stress generation model) and, alternately, marital dissatisfaction leading to depression (marital discord model). Clinical research indicates that treating the relationship of unstable couples can result in improvements in relationship satisfaction and depression. However, many unstable couples may not attend therapy and choose rather to attend Couple and Relationship Education (CRE). Using 250 ethnically diverse couples in community CRE classes, the authors found that relationally unstable participants of CRE report improvements in depressed affect and relationship quality after program participation. Additionally, decreased depressed affect predicted increased relationship quality, not vice versa, and there were no differences by sex. The authors note the potential value of CRE for unstable couples and recommend that interventionists utilize an inclusive approach, devoting attention to the couple relationship as well as individual distress variables.
    March 03, 2014   doi: 10.1111/fare.12064   open full text
  • Close Relationships Predict Curvilinear Trajectories of Maternal Depressive Symptoms over the Transition to Parenthood.
    Stephanie H. Parade, A. Nayena Blankson, Esther M. Leerkes, Susan C. Crockenberg, Richard Faldowski.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 03, 2014
    Trajectories of change in maternal depressive symptoms were examined in a sample of 98 mothers across the transition to parenthood. Latent class growth modeling revealed two unique trajectories: one characterized by consistently low depressive symptoms, the other characterized by a curvilinear pattern with initially elevated symptoms that declined around the time of childbirth then returned to elevated levels by 24 weeks postpartum. Mothers who recalled less paternal care and acceptance in childhood and who reported that they engaged in more avoidance and aggression in their own romantic relationships were more likely to experience the curvilinear trajectory. Mothers who reported that their partners engaged in more avoidance in their romantic relationships were also more likely to experience the curvilinear trajectory, but especially when mothers recalled low maternal care and acceptance. Partner's aggression did not predict the trajectory of maternal depressive symptoms. Results have implications for screening for maternal postpartum depression.
    March 03, 2014   doi: 10.1111/fare.12065   open full text
  • Stressful Life Events, Marital Satisfaction, and Marital Management Skills of Taiwanese Couples.
    Pei‐Fen Li, K. A. S. Wickrama.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. March 03, 2014
    The association between stressful life events and marital satisfaction for 372 Taiwanese couples was examined, as was the moderating effects of three marital management skills (e.g., tolerance/sacrifice, empathy/consideration, soothing/alleviation) on that association. Multilevel modeling analysis showed that stressful life events reduced husbands' and wives' marital satisfaction. Spouses' marital management skills were associated with an increase in their marital satisfaction (actor effects) except for husbands' soothing and alleviation skills. Husbands' tolerance and empathy were also related to an increase in the wife's marital satisfaction (partner effects) and had significant interactions with the relationship between the wife's stress and her marital satisfaction. Husbands' and wives' soothing skills also had significant interactions with the association between stressful life events and their own satisfaction. These results are discussed in relation to the life course, stress process, coping theories, and Chinese cultural values as well as their clinical implications of working with Chinese population.
    March 03, 2014   doi: 10.1111/fare.12066   open full text
  • Low‐Income Mothers' Employment Experiences: Prospective Links with Young Children's Development.
    Caitlin McPherran Lombardi, Rebekah Levine Coley.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. June 04, 2013
    This study assessed mothers' employment experiences and links with children's long‐term cognitive achievement and socio‐emotional adjustment using a representative sample of low‐income mothers and children (N = 538) from the Three‐City Study. Maternal employment involvement, quality, and stability were assessed over a 2‐year period when children were aged 24 to 48 months. Cluster analysis of the employment characteristics yielded 4 distinct employment patterns differing by the quality and stability of employment. OLS regression analyses linking these employment patterns with children's functioning at age 9 revealed that high‐quality stable employment was associated with enhanced cognitive skills and behavioral functioning among children. Further analysis suggested the significance of mothers' consistent insurance benefits to the long‐term well‐being of their children.
    June 04, 2013   doi: 10.1111/fare.12018   open full text
  • The Theory of Social Systems as a Framework for Understanding Family Businesses.
    Arist von Schlippe, Hermann Frank.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. June 04, 2013
    There is a long tradition of systemic approaches in family business research, but recent developments have been widely ignored. This article gives a brief overview of these approaches and models and then introduces the modern theory of social systems. This theory no longer considers individuals as parts of the system but assumes that the basic elements of a social system are acts of communication. In each system (family, business, ownership), a specific communication pattern evolves and each system operates within a specific functional logic. Families process relationship communication, businesses process decision communication, and ownership operates on the basis of legally secured communication. Each of these three structurally coupled systems provides a specific context. The functional logics are context markers and assign meaning to the communicative acts. To understand how a family business functions, it is important to understand the concrete functional logics and the structural coupling of the three systems.
    June 04, 2013   doi: 10.1111/fare.12010   open full text
  • Family Social Capital in Family Businesses: A Stocks and Flows Investigation.
    Clinton G. Gudmunson, Sharon M. Danes.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. June 04, 2013
    This study investigates family social capital “stock and flow” processes defined by social capital access and use at the family‐firm nexus over time. We examined direction of effects in associations between family functional strength and business‐related tension moderated by firm continuation status using National Family Business Panel data, grounded in the Sustainable Family Business Theory (SFBT). Families continuing ownership experienced greater family functional continuity, which was associated with less business‐related tension over time. Families discontinuing ownership exhibited less functional continuity with a family and business disengagement pattern. Regarding bridging of family capital resources, differences were found in human, social, and financial capital that were associated with family functional strength and business‐related tension for each ownership group. For both groups, however, making family a priority over firm was associated with stronger family functionality. Contributions include theoretical and methodological distinctions between family capital stocks and flows and support for SFBT theoretical propositions.
    June 04, 2013   doi: 10.1111/fare.12017   open full text
  • Passing the Torch: Factors Influencing Transgenerational Intent in Family Firms.
    David W. Williams, Michelle L. Zorn, T. Russell Crook, James G. Combs.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. June 04, 2013
    Recent family business research has focused on transgenerational intent (TI)—the plan to pass management of the business to future generations—as a defining characteristic of family firms. We theorize that TI is influenced by the current leader's consideration of factors related to three subsystems (business, ownership, and family) that underlie the family business system. Specifically, we hypothesize that characteristics of the business (the age and size of the firm), the owners (gender and minority status), and the family, specifically the family's engagement in the firm (time until succession and the family's role in advising the CEO) influence the current leader's TI. Results based on a survey of over 700 family‐managed firms are largely supportive of our hypotheses. Understanding what affects TI will help advance researchers' efforts to develop a theory of the family firm.
    June 04, 2013   doi: 10.1111/fare.12016   open full text
  • Family Communication and Innovativeness in Family Firms.
    Salvatore Sciascia, Eric Clinton, Robert S. Nason, Albert E. James, Juan O. Rivera‐Algarin.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. June 04, 2013
    This conceptual article seeks to address the heterogeneity of family firms in terms of their innovativeness by investigating business family communication dynamics. We use the established family communication constructs of conversation and conformity orientations to develop a typology of family firms in terms of innovativeness. We provide empirically testable propositions and present possible operationalizations for future research. In particular, we argue that supportive business families (i.e., families characterized by high conversation orientation and moderate conformity orientation) are associated with the highest levels of innovativeness in the family‐controlled firm. Through this article we hope to deepen our understanding of the relationship between family and firm levels of analysis, to develop a stronger bond between communication and innovative behavior, and to identify family‐related antecedents of heterogeneity in family firm innovativeness.
    June 04, 2013   doi: 10.1111/fare.12014   open full text
  • The Determinants of Family Owner‐Managers' Affective Organizational Commitment.
    Esra Memili, Thomas M. Zellweger, Hanqing Chevy Fang.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. June 04, 2013
    Affective organizational commitment is an important predictor of the willingness to contribute to organizational goals and is of particular relevance to family firms, as these firms often rely on long‐term involvement of family members through transgenerational succession. Drawing on organizational commitment and ownership attachment theories, we probe the influence of family firm dynamics (i.e., family harmony and relationship conflict) on work‐family conflict and family owner‐managers' ownership attachment, which in turn impact affective organizational commitment. On the basis of a study of 326 family firms, we introduce ownership attachment as an important antecedent to affective organizational commitment. We find that ownership attachment is positively affected by both family harmony and work‐family conflict, whereby work‐family conflict is influenced by relationship conflict. We also find that work‐family conflict affects ownership attachment.
    June 04, 2013   doi: 10.1111/fare.12015   open full text
  • Boss and Parent, Employee and Child: Work‐Family Roles and Deviant Behavior in the Family Firm.
    Joseph T. Cooper, Roland E. Kidwell, Kimberly A. Eddleston.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. June 04, 2013
    The work‐family literature examines the degree to which work and family roles can be segmented or integrated by an individual. In the family firm, the requirement that work and family roles be integrated creates tension for family employees, particularly those who prefer higher degrees of segmentation between the roles. Integrating family firm with family relations research, this article explores potential difficulties experienced by family employees in making transitions from their family role to work role and the potential for family employees to engage in deviant behavior due to unresolved conflict and ambiguity from work‐family role integration. These difficulties, we argue, are in part due to problems in separating role expectations when they come from indistinct sources; that is, when the boss and father, for example, are the same person. We explain how the tensions between work and family can create a cycle of deviance in the family and family firm domains.
    June 04, 2013   doi: 10.1111/fare.12012   open full text
  • When Family Members Are Also Business Owners: Is Entrepreneurship Good for Families?
    Jennifer E. Jennings, Rhonda S. Breitkreuz, Albert E. James.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. June 04, 2013
    This article represents a call to family scholars for help in examining the effects of business ownership on families. To demonstrate the importance of this call, we illustrate the extent to which new venture creation is encouraged by policymakers and estimate the number of families engaged in entrepreneurial activity around the globe. We then summarize emergent critiques questioning the glorification of entrepreneurship in general and review the limited body of scholarly work examining the effects on families in particular. We conclude by outlining potential research agendas for several domains of family scholarship, providing examples of the provocative questions that arise when business ownership is explicitly acknowledged as a factor likely to impact family dynamics and well‐being.
    June 04, 2013   doi: 10.1111/fare.12013   open full text
  • Conflict in Family Business: Common Metaphors and Suggestions for Intervention.
    Torsten M. Pieper, Joseph H. Astrachan, George E. Manners.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. June 04, 2013
    The interdependence between family and business systems in family business can create conflicts unknown to families without involvement in a business. Using a phenomenological approach based on extensive research and consulting experiences with families in business, we describe three of the most common conflicts that can result from the mutual impact of business and family systems. We provide ways to diagnose problem areas and offer intervention suggestions to produce change in the family business system.
    June 04, 2013   doi: 10.1111/fare.12011   open full text
  • Are Government‐Supported Healthy Marriage Initiatives Affecting Family Demographics? A State‐Level Analysis.
    Alan J. Hawkins, Paul R. Amato, Andrea Kinghorn.
    Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies. June 04, 2013
    This study assesses whether government‐supported Healthy Marriage Initiatives (HMIs)—educational programs to help couples form and sustain healthy marriages and relationships—have had a measurable impact on population‐level family outcomes. We compiled data on funding for these initiatives between 2000 and 2010 and aggregated these data to the state level for each year. We employed pooled time‐series regression with fixed state and year effects to estimate the effects of funding on population‐level outcomes taken from the American Community Survey. Cumulative per capita funding for HMIs between 2005 and 2010 was positively associated with small changes in the percentage of married adults in the population and children living with two parents, and it was negatively associated with the percentage of children living with one parent, nonmarital births, and children living in poverty. These results were diminished, however, when an influential outlier—Washington, DC—was removed from the analysis. Interpretations and implications of these findings are discussed.
    June 04, 2013   doi: 10.1111/fare.12009   open full text