42 Unit 1 Your Development and Relationships
A major change in the family
occurs when a couple decides to
have a child. This is the beginning
of the childbearing stage. This stage
will involve many adjustments
as the couple assumes their new
roles as parents. There will be
increased demands on time,
energy, fi nances, and freedom.
These demands will affect the
couple’s home, work, and social
life. This stage continues until all
children are born or adopted.
When the fi rst child begins
school, the family enters the
parenting stage. This stage brings
new changes for the family, 2-7.
The child’s school activities and
sports events may alter the family’s
schedule. As this stage continues,
children enter the teen years. Other
changes occur during this stage
because of teens’ social activities.
Teens begin to spend more time away from home. They become more involved
with their friends. As teens seek more independence, they and their families
are affected.
During the launching stage, the fi rst child leaves home. Children may leave
for college or join the military. They may work full time and want to fi nd their
own place to live or move in with friends. They may get married and start
families of their own. As children leave, parents will have more space at home.
They will have the time and freedom they enjoyed during the fi rst years of
marriage. Today, however, it is not uncommon for adult children to return
home and live with their parents longer.
During the mid-years stage, the couple is faced with an empty nest when
the last child leaves home. They may feel a void in their lives. The active
parenting role is behind them. They may have more time to explore some of
their personal interests. Both husband and wife may continue their careers
until they retire. Their income may be the highest during this stage. They may
travel and become involved in other activities.
After retirement, a couple enters the aging stage. This stage lasts until both
spouses die. If the couple is fi nancially secure and in good health, they may
have many happy years together. They can enjoy pursuing lifelong interests.
This can be a very satisfying and rewarding time of life.
As health begins to fail, however, more help from family members and
friends may be necessary. Older people may need special services such as
transportation, meals, and recreational services provided for them. When one
spouse dies, the other may need help adjusting to the loss.
2-7 During the parenting stage, clothing, school
events, and new social activities take more of the
family’s time and money.
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