Divorce and changing family practices in a post-traditional society
Moral decline or changes to moral practices?
You are in an archived section of the AIFS website
June 2000
Download Family Matters article
Abstract
Families encounter a diversity of experiences in achieving satisfactory post-divorce arrangements for parenting. The author conceptualises divorce as a catalyst and an opportunity for personal growth, arguing that a new 'moral terrain' is emerging which prioritises the quality of relationships between children and their parents. The paper is based on findings from three related studies conducted in Britain, the 'Negotiating Parenthood' study, and two studies with the children of divorced or separated parents.
Families encounter a diversity of experiences in achieving satisfactory post-divorce arrangements for parenting. The author conceptualises divorce as a catalyst and an opportunity for personal growth, arguing that a new 'moral terrain' is emerging which prioritises the quality of relationships between children and their parents. The paper is based on findings from three related studies conducted in Britain, the 'Negotiating Parenthood' study, and two studies with the children of divorced or separated parents.