Published by Communications and Public Affairs (519) 824-4120, Ext. 56982 or 53338
News Release
June 20, 2002
U of G seeking stepfamilies for study
The University of Guelph's Department of Family Relations and Applied Nutrition is looking for stepfamilies to participate in a series of three studies that will explore how the different generations of a stepfamily support each other.
Profs. Joan Norris, Scott Maitland and Joseph Tindale need 100 families for their studies, consisting of at least one adult child with a step-parent and step-grandparent.
Stepfamilies are increasingly common, but they are also quite complex because they involve a 'step' beyond the initial family formation. Little is known about how members of stepfamilies perceive and act out their relationships with each other.
"Our social and health care systems are based on policy ideas about traditional nuclear families and may not meet the needs of other family forms such as stepfamilies," said Tindale.
Stepfamily members will take part in individual and group exercises that will range from one to five hours, with times and places to be arranged at the participants’ convenience. The identity of the participants will not be revealed in the results of the study.
For additional information or to participate in the study, contact research assistant Allison Kelly at 519-824-4120, Ext. 8389, or send e-mail to ajkelly75@hotmail.com.
