Misconceptions About the U-Shaped Curve of Marital Satisfaction Over the Life Course

Keywords

marital satisfaction, longitudinal research

Abstract

There are three misconceptions about the empirical generalization the there is a curvilinear relationship between marital satisfaction and the family life cycle. These misconceptions are that the generalization is based primarily on cross-sectional data, the slope of the U-shaped curve is steep and dramatic, and change in marital satisfaction over the life course is primarily a function of changes in parenting. These misconceptions are reexamined using longitudinal research. Implications for family life educators and researchers are discussed.

Original Publication Citation

Miller, R.B. (2000). Misconceptions about the U-shaped curve of marital satisfaction over the life course. Family Science Review, 13, 60-73.

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2000-7

Permanent URL

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/6785

Publisher

Family Science Review

Language

English

College

Family, Home, and Social Sciences

Department

Sociology

University Standing at Time of Publication

Full Professor

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