Description
Book SynopsisFamily Conflict takes a life course approach as it provides an accessible discussion of family conflict issues, processes, and outcomes. Chapters draw on recent theory and research regarding sub-systems and stages in family life to give readers resource-rich overviews of conflict in contemporary families. After the initial chapter presents the landscape of family conflict theory and research, chapters focus on conflict in couple relationships, parent-child relationships, sibling relationships, and in stepfamilies. The book concludes with a discussion of how specific work, health, and disability challenges facing today's families influence, and are influenced by, conflict interactions.
Family Conflict will be essential reading for students of family communication, family researchers, professionals who work with families in various stages of life, and anyone who desires a deeper understanding of their own family conflict processes.
Trade Review"Scholars and students alike will appreciate this highly accessible volume. The authors masterfully weave together multiple perspectives to cogently capture the state of the art on family conflict."
Brett Laursen, Florida Atlantic University"This is an excellent piece of well-balanced, integrative scholarship. The writing is precise yet engaging and the book will be an excellent introduction to family conflict for people new to the area and a useful resource for people already familiar with the topic."
John Caughlin, University of IllinoisTable of ContentsDetailed Contents viii
Tables and Figures x
Preface xi
1 Introduction to Family Conflict 1
2 Marital Conflict 22
3 Interparental Conflict, Post-Divorce, and Stepfamilies 52
4 Conflict between Parents and Children 82
5 Siblings in Conflict 113
6 Conflict in the Face of Family Challenges: Work-Family Interface, Health & Disability, and Family Resilience 141
Appendices 166
References 175
Index 197
