work-family issues

One of the central purposes of an introductory family science textbook is to introduce students to the theory and research methods that are commonly used in the discipline and to the applications of research to practical issues confronting families. We examined seventeen textbooks published between 2012-2019 regarding the amount of content devoted to theory, research methods, and application. The authors systematically coded content in the textbooks based on an examination of the Tables of Contents and the Subject Index. The results indicate that most introductory textbooks include limited content about theory and research methods. Also, despite the emphasis of the profession on the translation of research, introductory textbooks did not include much information about family life education or family therapy. There was more coverage of family policy, but the authors rarely included a discussion of the policy process or how research can inform policy. These results can assist instructors in selecting textbooks for courses and assist authors in the development of future textbooks.

• Carlene O. Fider, School of Human Development and Education, Pacific Oaks College
• Colwick M. Wilson, University of the Southern Caribbean

Relationships that involve a physician and a non-physician professional spouse face many challenges that are similar to those experienced by dual career marriages. However, there are unique demands that are associated with physicians who are married to other professionals. One such challenge is the task of navigating their multiple familial and professional roles. This present study explores how physicians who are married to other professionals confront and navigate the complex environment that is often characteristic of work-family issues in this population. Employing an exploratory qualitative design, 34 heterosexual individuals (17 couples) completed in-depth qualitative interviews. These dyadic interviews included 10 male physicians and 7 female physicians. A multisystemic approach was employed to explore themes that emerged. One major theme, contextual appreciation of the physician's work demands, and three sub-themes: familial support, non-traditional parenting and domestic roles, and paid help, emerged. These data provide important information for the medical education of physicians with specific emphasis on navigating multiple familial and professional roles when part of dual career marriages. Findings provide implications for physician vitality/health, medical education, and continuing education with a focus on physician marriages.