This report summarizes two studies conducted as part of a continuing research program designed to examine relational perceptions in dyadic communication contexts. A mutual-causal, relational paradigm tested the nature of interpersonal solidarity in dyads consisting of acquaintances, co-workers, family members, and friends. Results of both studies…

In an attempt to evaluate the thesis of Albert Wendt, the well-known Samoan writer, that competing loyalties, goals, and expectations create tension among Polynesian migrants to New Zealand, this paper examines the psychological and social costs of Polynesian migration to an urban center in New Zealand. During 1979-80, 228 Samoans, 2,122 Cook…

Consensus has been identified as a dimension of family solidarity with important implications for the family network. To investigate the factors contributing to consensus between older adults and their sibling of most contact, 275 adults (173 females, 102 males), with a mean age of 74 years, were interviewed using a questionnaire covering work and…

This is a description of a workshop focusing on the couple in the remarried family, and stressing the development of a balanced, effectively working family system. The workshop content, which functions through didactic presentations, leader-led exercises, group interactions and homework, addresses the following topics: (1) communication…

A study of relations between perceived closeness and the level of biological maturation of male and female seventh-grade students sought additional support for empirical differentiation between closeness and acceptance. The study also investigated the relation of perceived closeness to parents' reports of satisfaction with parenting, children's…

Results are presented of an intensive search of U.S. newspapers and periodicals on the joint custody of children after divorce, where both parents have continued responsibility for parenting and where the children spend part of each week, month, or year with both of the parents. Areas of concern addressed by these materials include the following:…

Twenty-four families participated in an intensive 8-hour adventure program that included initiative games, rock climbing, and whitewater rafting in the mountains of central Colorado. A study examined the effects of participation on parental perceptions of family problem solving, communication, cohesiveness, and general functioning. A questionnaire…

Over the past decade parent education programs, following either a democratic or behavior modification model, have gained in recognition and support. To investigate the effectiveness of Jean Illsley Clarke's parent education program, Self Esteem: A Family Affair, on self-esteem, conflict resolution, and family togetherness and flexibility, 27…

Family stress theory as a framework for family policy and family impact analysis is compatible with, and a logical development within, a broader ecological context of immediate and wider social environments. The central assumption of the family stress framework is that families have the capacity to organize a variety of supports--economic, social,…