Chapter 14 Family Life Today
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The Childless Family
The childless family includes a married couple without children. The
reasons couples choose not to have children vary. Some couples may want
to focus on their careers and delay having children. Some couples may be
unable to have children. Other couples may plan to never have children.
Childless families may have more fi nancial resources because they
do not have the expenses that go along with raising children. Both the
husband and wife often work outside the home. They may wish to
pursue more challenging career goals and devote more time to their
careers. The couple often shares responsibilities in the home and works
together to reach individual and mutual goals.
The Adoptive Family
When a couple chooses to adopt a child, they become the legal
parents of the child they bring into their home. Adoptive parenting is a
rich and fulfi lling way to realize the joys of parenthood and provide a
warm, nurturing home for a child, 14-7. The child is also accepted as a
brother or sister to other children the parents may have.
Adoptive families face their own unique challenges. Because there
are many laws, regulations, and processes to follow during the adoption
process, adoptions can be expensive and the waiting period can take
years. This can cause additional stress on the prospective parents as well
as the child. Another challenge families may face relates to the identity
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When a couple adopts a child, grandparents experience a new excitement
in their lives as well.