The effects of parenthood status on kinship relations

Handrigan, Helen Marie (1978) The effects of parenthood status on kinship relations. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

This research explored the effect of parenthood status on kinship relations. It was hypothesized that the one-parent family would have more contact with the consanguinal kin than affinal kin, in order to fill the place that was vacated by the spouse. It was assumed that increased contact would be necessary as the one-parent family would be in need of extra support systems. -- A random sample of one-parent families and dual-parent families was chosen to ascertain who maintained the most contact with kin. A mail questionnaire was used and questions were asked about the frequency of visiting, telephoning, letter writing, and the receiving of financial assistance. These questions were asked in relation to consanguinal kin and affinal kin. -- The data were analyzed by using the t-test for significance and the Pearson’s Product Moment correlation coefficient as a measure of association. It was shown through the findings that parenthood status does indeed affect kinship relations but the direction showed tat the dual-parent family has significantly more contact with kin that the one-parent family. -- The findings of this research have opened up many new areas of investigation surrounding the dynamics of the one-parent family. The reasons why the one-parent family does not maintain contact should be researched to add to our understanding. In addition to this area, it would also be interesting to note who the one-parent family does use as a support, if indeed anyone.

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