Examines the economic hardship that divorce entails. Wives are usually awarded custody of children without commensurate financial help from fathers and face other impediments in the labor market to higher pay and adequate employment opportunities. Policies dealing with these problems often center on income transfers and enforcement of child…

Reviews two recent changes in divorce laws: the removal of misconduct as a ground for divorce and the removal of gender as a criterion for settlements. The consequence has been the deterioration of the economic well-being of divorced females. Courts should place explicit economic value on spouses' nonmonetary contributions. (JAC)