Question

Critique the stage model by identifying at least two strengths and potential weaknesses of using this framework for understanding family process.

Answer 1

The family stage model includes following stages those are

1) Individual independence - a person bis emotionally independent 2) marriage or coupling - A person gets a partner 3) rasing children - it's about managing, kids finances, their education. Family cycle may break at this stage 4) launching adult kids - Here the children find their own ways and parents may feel lost or there is empty nest syndrome 5) Aging in life - the person ages and has grandchildren, retires from work life, relocates in new areas.

The strengths of this model are the stages can be differentiated very easily. They are very easy to understand and relate.

Whereas weaknesses are this may not be same across all cultures. There may not be launching of adults as both may stay in same house. It has not considered same sex partners. Some partners or couple may not like to have children and hence their priorities are different.