46 Unit 1 Your Development and Relationships
to be altered. There will be less
fear and tension if everyone works
together to solve the crisis.
A budget or spending plan can
help. If income is limited, a plan
can indicate which expenses are
most critical. Food and shelter are
necessities. Families can reduce
recreation expenses, however, until
the crisis is over.
Family Structures
Change
Several events can occur to cause
a family structure to change, 2-11.
A nuclear family could become an
extended family if a grandparent
moves in with them. The couple in a
nuclear family could get a divorce, causing a single-parent family to form. A single
parent could remarry, forming a stepfamily or blended family.
Family members need to stick together during this time of change.
They need to show love, concern, respect, and consideration for one
another. With time and patience, everyone can begin to feel comfortable
with the new structure.
Divorce
Unlike many fairy tales, not all married couples live happily ever after.
When a couple decides to divorce, all family members are affected. This crisis
can last for months or even years. It can be a very diffi cult time for everyone.
A divorce does not usually occur suddenly. Children are often aware of
tension building between their parents. Sometimes children feel they are the
cause of their parent’s divorce. This is seldom the case. Changing interests,
values, goals, or fi nancial challenges
may cause a couple to grow apart.
Sometimes domestic violence may
be the cause. Alcohol or drug abuse
can also lead to a divorce.
When a couple decides to
end their marriage, it can be hard
on everyone. Children may feel a
mixture of fear, anger, depression,
and guilt. Small children may
wonder what will happen to them.
Older children may become angry
with their parents. Teens may feel
pulled between the two adults.
2-11 Changes in the family structure require family
members to make many adjustments.
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Social Studies Connections
Child Custody
Decisions concerning child custody and support
are made during the divorce process. The courts decide
who gains custody of the children. The parent who does
not have custody of the children may be required to
pay child support. In some cases, the mother retains
custody. The children would live with her and she would
provide for their care. In other cases, the father gets
custody. Another arrangement is joint custody.
Refl ect