Marriage and Family SOCI 2160 Class #22 May 24, 2011 Fabric art by Synthia SAINT JAMES

Erikson’s Adult Stages Adolescence : Identity versus Role Confusion Adulthood Intimacy versus Isolation Generativity versus Stagnation Integrity versus Despair http://www.mccneb.edu/flv/?path=/PSYC/1120&file=Movie.flv&w=320&h=260

ISSUES OF STEP-PARENTING

TYPES Remarried parent and step-parent Both bring children to new marriage Visitations with remarried parent and step-parent Cohabitants in which one or both partners have children Yours, mine, & ours

UNIQUE ASPECTS Post crisis event Lacking biological relationship Changed, inconsistent values and norms Torn allegiances children and parent(s) parent and parent siblings

PROBLEMS Discipline: what should parents do to confront discipline issues? Child support: how can delinquent parents be encouraged to pay? What should parent say to children about delinquent support?

STRENGTHS Exposure to a variety of behavior patterns Happier parents Opportunities for new relationships Siblings Extended family Parent

DO's AND DON'T's IN STEP FAMILIES Establish rituals

Aging Families

Developmental Tasks Balances in separateness and togetherness Re-aligning & redefining relationships with children, siblings & other family members Cultivating and maintaining a support network of friends Healthy habits Dealing with mortality

Biological Transitions Menopause Osteoporosis Midlife crises Sexual changes

Symptoms of Menopause Hot flashes 80% Muscle and joint pain 72% Headaches 68% Increased weight 65% Lightheadedness 58% Irritability 93% Fatigue 91% Tension 91% Nervousness 88% Depression 86% Breast sensitivity 56% Increased appetite 50% Dizziness 49% Constipation 45% Numbness and tingling 45% Lack of concentration 82% Short temper 81% Early awakening or insomnia 77% Loss of memory 75%

Middle Age Issues for Males Checking sexual performance for any signs of aging Blaming menopausal wives and seeking younger partners Insecurities or disappointments with career path

Social Issues Becoming more androgynous Men become less assertive; women become more assertive Adjustment to retirement Life expectancy Coping with reduced finances Independent living vs. Living with family members

Factors that Promote Healthy Sexual Functioning nonsmoking moderate - low alcohol use controlled blood pressure weight control / healthy diet regular exercise adequate rest

Finishing up Talking About Scenarios Quiz scores and grades