N ATIONAL COUNCIL ON FAMILY RELATIONS

IN THIS ISSUE: Round ‘em Up Family Focus on… Welfare Reform and Come to Houston!

pages F1-F24 any months of exceptional plan- discounts in the future? In addition, for ning by Alan Booth, Program each booking by a conference attendee, Chair, and his enthusiastic NCFR receives credit to be used to bring In 1996, the U.S. shifted to a M committees have culminated in a terrifi- in VIP speakers at lower airline rates, thus “work first” welfare system. cally stimulating premiere conference in cutting expenses which are then passed Houston, Texas - “SPACE CITY USA!” We on to you, the consumer. invite you to round up your colleagues, For example, the work The conference theme: Families over the students, family and friends, and join us Life Course: Bridging Research and November 21-24, 2002 for a memorable exemption for parents of Practice has informational sessions for just children under 3 years of age about any professional. Here are a few examples: was repealed, and less
High quality content sessions for emphasis was placed on skills researchers, practitioners, and clinicians: In addition to the plenary development and education. panels (see March 2002 Report) there are over 25 sessions covering children/ adolescent/parenting/fathering issues; In this issue, we explore 20 sessions on mate selection and marriage; 15 on aging issues; 20 on the effects of welfare reform Cindy Winter, CMP, Conference Coordinator and international, diverse families; 20 on Alan Booth, 2002 Conference Program Chair on families and children work/family/community life; 30 on professional development experience that teaching/research methodologies and and look at ways to facilitate also promises to be great fun for all! many more topics of interest to family “Rounding up” means travel and you can scholars and practitioners. the transition from help NCFR for future conferences while
Pre-approved CEU Credits by APA, welfare to work. As always, getting to Houston! Here’s how. . . NASW (Metro Washington Chapter), Getting to Houston: Did you know that National Board of Certified Counselors, we welcome your comments. when you book your flights to Houston Employee Assistance Professional through Continental MeetingWorks Association, George Mason University Next Issue: #UF2DCY or Northwest Meeting Services and Certified Family Life Educators, Desk #NEM6V you not only get great many of which are specified on the Medical Technology discounts for yourself, but you are enabling program. This is a sure way to enhance NCFR to build a successful airline profile your professional development that helps to negotiate better conference portfolio. Come to Houston! continued on page 2 President’s Report

3 C’s of Membership in NCFR all is always a time of new begin- NCFR, which is to provide a forum for opportunity to network and meet with nings after a summer break. It is a family researchers, educators, and friends is an important reason for Ftime to renew commitments to practitioners to share in the develop- attending the conference. It’s a wonder- work, begin new professional endeavors, ment and dissemination of knowledge ful time to connect with colleagues who welcome new colleagues to our work about families, to establish professional are doing research on similar topics or environments, introduce new students standards, and to promote family well- using similar methodologies, as well as into our varied programs, and prepare being, I also share the 3 C’s of NCFR with teachers and practitioners with for the annual conference of the Na- membership: connection, competence, whom we can share strategies for tional Council on Family Relations. and commitment. effective practice. Inevitably new colleagues and students CONNECTION We who teach family studies understand ask about membership in NCFR. After I The annual conference is always a time that it’s impossible to know everything tell them about the general mission of for us to update our knowledge of the about this multifaceted field. The annual field and renew our friendships with meeting gives us a chance to talk with colleagues who have similar personal researchers and educators in all areas of Report and professional interests. In fact, a family studies; colleagues in disciplines recent membership survey showed that such as psychology, sociology, law, of The National Council on Family Relations many NCFR members feel that the President’s Report continued on page 3 Mission Statement for the Report: REPORT, the quarterly newsletter of the COME TO HOUSTON
Houston’s Ethnic and Cultural National Council on Family Relations, strives Heritage is rich in the food cuisine to provide timely, useful information to help continued from page 1 (seafood from Kemah, Cajun, Mexi- members succeed in their roles as researchers,
Super Sights, Sounds, and Smells can and Western barbecue); music educators, and practitioners. Articles address from Houston’s opera, and sym- family field issues, programs and trends, of Houston integrate conference including association news. learning experiences with fun when phony to Zydeco and line dance. Theatres abound for every person’s President: Carol Anderson Darling you take advantage of some great Editor: Michael L. Benjamin specials such as: taste. Museums combine the truly Managing Editor: Sasha A. Smith American melting pot and include
Topics Feature Writer: Nancy Giguere Pre-conference tour of the Johnson the Buffalo Soldiers, Bayou Bend (Ima Space Center/NASA with Cosmo NCFR Report is published quarterly by the Hogg estate), Battleship Texas, and The National Council on Family Relations, Cool Concept Inc. on Wednesday, American Cowboy Museum. Science 3989 Central Ave. N.E., Suite 550, November 20, 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. and technology are distinguished in Minneapolis, MN 55421, Fax: 763-781- where you’ll view actual space craft, the largest medical complex in the 9348, website: www.ncfr.org. gear, artifacts, and look behind the world at Texas Medical Center, and Third class postage permit. scenes at how astronauts train. the great Petrochemical complex. En route to and from you’ll tour Report subscription rate: $20.00 per year; By registering before October 15, to come $5.00 per copy. For bulk rates, call through Houston’s historic, art, sports, 888-781-9331, ext. 14. Annual member- medical, and shopping districts. All to Houston, you can save up to $40 on ship dues include Report subscription. this for only $60/person including your registration fee. Go online at $15.00 U.S. postage per year postpaid at venue tickets, lunch and transporta- www.ncfr.org, and click on the confer- individual rate. tion. (See p. 77 of program.) ence link, or call 1-888-781-9331 ext 14. NEWS DEADLINES: January 8 for We are anxious to give you our very best March issue; April 9 for June issue; July 9
The Titanic Exhibit complete with conference, and Houston is anxious to for September issue; October 1 for artifacts, an IMAX film “6 Stories show you its best in fun and entertain- December issue. High” and a Planetarium Dome ment, so round up your resources and One copy of any portion of this simulation of the weather of that make plans now to come to Houston! publication can be made for personal use. fateful 1912 night will be available to Additional reprints of this publication NCFR Conventioneers for a dis- Alan Booth are available by contacting NCFR counted price of $17.50 through the 2002 Conference Program Chair headquarters at the address above. E-mail: [email protected] Bulk rates available. Hyatt Hotel. This is a part of the Museum of Natural Science Novem- Copyright © 2002 National Council on Cindy Winter, CMP Family Relations. All rights reserved. ber showings, just a short distance Conference Coordinator from the hotel. E-mail: [email protected]

NCFR Report September 2002 2 PRESIDENT’S REPORT continued from page 2 medicine, and human development; and programs at 54 colleges and universi- tional developments. In addition, the therapists and other practitioners who ties (54 at the undergraduate level and quarterly NCFR Report provides us work in social service agencies, in the 13 at the graduate level). During times with organizational information as military, or in government. These con- of financial cutbacks, many family well as a Family Focus section devoted nections enhance both our classroom science programs have turned to to an issue of current interest. Family teaching and our work with graduate NCFR for letters of support because Focus can be removed and added to students who are embarking on their many academic institutions view the our files. own research. Moreover, as we become CFLE-approved program credential as
NCFR provides national recognition of more global in our research, teaching, and an asset for a department. NCFR and outstanding work through awards to understanding of world events, NCFR the CFLE staff also provide us with individuals and organizations. These membership opens doors and creates teacher kits, course syllabi, and teach- awards recognize excellence in re- bonds with international colleagues. ing methodology updates. Look for search, teaching, service to families, the upcoming publication Family Life COMPETENCE and audio-visual production, as well as Education: Integrating Theory and In this increasingly complex world, outstanding work by students, future Practice. staying competent means continual administrators, and international learning. Every year when I leave the
NCFR is positioning itself as an issue- scholars. annual conference, I’m happy about oriented professional organization ·
NCFR is particularly committed to what I have learned and experienced. that brings the latest scientific students and new professionals. They But I’m also frustrated that I couldn’t research on families to the attention of have an elected role in each section attend all the sessions. I always say, “I’ll policymakers. NCFR’s booklet Public and are represented on both the Board just have to come back next year to learn Policy through a Family Lens has been of Directors and the Program Planning some more.” Since NCFR is an organiza- distributed to members of the U.S. Committee for the annual meeting. tion that links family research, educa- Congress, governors, and selected state Because many of us first joined NCFR tion, and practice, the annual conference legislators. This publication illustrates as graduate students and new profes- offers us many wonderful opportunities the collective expertise of NCFR sionals, we really try to be supportive. to enhance our competence in research members on family-related issues and A few years ago I asked some of my methodology, theoretical developments, provides a tool to examine the impact graduate students who had attended subject matter, and practice. I often say of legislation on families. The annual their first NCFR conference how they that I come to the conference to gain Public Policy Conference allows mem- liked the annual meeting. They said both a research “fix” and a teaching “fix.” bers and nonmembers to learn the they had learned a lot, but more latest national policy trends that affect I also rely on NCFR’s journals to keep importantly, they were impressed that families and those who work with up-to-date. From the Journal of Marriage everyone was so friendly to them. A them. It also gives colleagues a chance and Family, which is rated number one in new professional recently told me that to network and strategize about ways the social science field, I get the latest she liked being a NCFR member and to influence public policy. The public information on theoretical develop- going to our meetings because NCFR policy committee is also in the begin- ments, research findings, and a critical was an “organization with a heart.” ning stages of developing a SWAT discussion of research related to mar- team (Scholars Worldwide Action So what does membership in NCFR riage and families. Family Relations, an Team), which will conduct research mean to me? If I didn’t belong to NCFR, interdisciplinary journal of applied on the family impact of proposed I would feel lost. The connection to family studies, highlights the implications legislation and develop fact sheets to others in the field, the opportunities to of research for practitioners. These are provide timely and empirical data to enhance my competence, and NCFR’s two very important journals in my per- members of Congress. commitment to provide us with the latest sonal library, and I use them frequently. information helps me to grow, change, ·
NCFR updates members over the COMMITMENT and meet the continuing challenges that Internet through “Zippy News,” NCFR is an organization committed not I face personally and professionally. listservs, and the official NCFR web only to its members, but also to the well- site. We receive the latest information Carol Anderson Darling, Ph.D., CFLE being of the profession, families, commu- on grant possibilities, census data, NCFR President nities, and our students and clients. For public policy issues, and organiza- E-mail: [email protected] example:
NCFR is committed to providing Encourage colleagues or students who are interested in joining NCFR to check quality teachers in family life educa- our web site at www.ncfr.org and to talk with current members. Lend them tion and setting the standards for the copies of our publications. Invite them to the annual conference or the meetings field. The Certified Family Life Educa- of student and affiliate chapters. Have them view our membership CD. (It’s tor Program, established about 20 available from the NCFR office. An updated version will be available at the years ago, is a credentialing program annual meeting in November.) Let’s promote the 3 Cs of NCFR membership to that currently has over 1300 CFLEs. everyone in the family studies field! Moreover, there are now 67 approved

NCFR Report September 2002 3 Executive Review

Research that Influences Public Policy n my last column, I began a discus- These researchers have developed a draw conclusions from the data. The sion on “research that influences “framework for categorizing family in- data were reported in a standardized Ipublic policy” and how family come status in relationship to poverty format to facilitate the review and com- scientists might use a public health and other well-being studies of families parative analysis. That is exactly what framework to articulate issues related to and individuals across the country.” Bauer, Braun, and their colleagues are family well-being and public policy. Bauer, Braun, and their colleagues have doing. In fact, their next meeting will More specifically, I brought up the con- formed a “surveillance network” that take place in October. resembles the Community Epidemiology cept of utilizing epidemiological tools Clearly surveillance is a significant Surveillance Network, which was created that would “provide data more pertinent component of epidemiology. There in 1976 by a number of multi-agency to policy makers, such as the prevalence must be a way to determine or recognize work groups with a public health orien- of a problem, its risk to the population, the existence of disease outbreak (for tation. That network studied the spread, and the potential cost-savings of policy example, inadequate food security in growth, and development of drug abuse responses.” low-income families) in a geographic and related problems. The primary objec- In that context, I would like to introduce area (rural counties) of concern and a tives of the network members were to: you to the work of Jean Bauer of the way to monitor the data that need to be University of Minnesota and Bonnie
Identify drug abuse patterns in collected. Braun of the University of Maryland and defined geographic areas. In her work with the American Associa- their colleagues who are studying rural
Identify changes in drug abuse pat- tion for Family and Consumer Sciences, families and welfare (see pages F3 and terns over defined time periods to Braun has developed an excellent F4 of Family Focus). In tracking the well- establish trends. analytical tool – The “Five Is” Policy being of rural families and their function-
Detect emerging substances of abuse. Analysis Organizing Tool. This tool fits ing in the context of welfare reform, they
well within the operational framework studied 433 families in 28 non-metro Communicate and disseminate the information to appropriate commu- of a Community Epidemiology Surveil- counties in 15 states. What these lance Network. The “Five Is” format researchers found was that employment, nity agencies and organizations so it can be used in developing policies, offers a methodology that defines and in and of itself, does not guarantee a way determines the magnitude of issues out of poverty or food security. Moreover practices, prevention strategies, and further research studies. related to family well-being, provides an they found that even though 50 percent early warning for emerging problems, are working, over 70 percent of those do To achieve these objectives, network considers the impact and implications not receive any childcare assistance. members accessed existing data and on various levels of policymaking, and Additionally, most mothers reported information from multiple sources. They provides a “call for action.” This last having trouble making ends meet! met periodically to review, compare, and element is an essential part of any public health framework. Student Chapter Grants — Round Two Public health develops population-based strategies to influence behavior change. With the initial success of creating 16 student affiliate councils, or student Public policy becomes the vehicle for that chapters, on college campuses this past year, NCFR is pleased to announce that change. When family science researchers this fall it will once again offer $500 grants to stimulate the creation of student use a public health framework, the chapters. The program is a one-time-only request available to departments opportunities for further family policy oriented toward family studies. Grants must be used to start NCFR student- development increase considerably! affiliated councils at the undergraduate or graduate level. Cases in point are several studies on The guidelines for this program are straightforward: nurse home visiting to low-income
Submit a letter from the dean or department chair requesting the $500 grant mothers. The researchers found that to start up an NCFR student-affiliate council. “nurse-visited mothers had an average of 69 percent fewer arrests, 37 fewer
Adhere to the 12-point “Student Affiliate Requirements” guidelines. months on food stamps, 30 fewer
Submit a final report prior to the close of the academic year as to progress and months on Aid to Families with Depen- expenditures made. dent Children (the old welfare pro- gram), 23 fewer months Medicaid, one- The deadline for requests is February 1, 2003. Please make inquires or send your fifth fewer subsequent births, and a request to Lynda Bessey at NCFR. Lynda’s e-mail address is [email protected]. spacing of 28 months between first and Executive Review continued on page 5 NCFR Report September 2002 4 Family Policy

Report From Washington GREATER DISPARITY will be raised. The failure to address how policies such as a higher Earned Income CFR members, concerned with working families’ needs are met in the Tax Credit or the work requirement is the well being of families, United States is affecting all three of not clear. We have not heard that the Ncannot help but be concerned these.” The book is based on seven years number of child-only cases has also about the growing disparity between the of original survey research, in many cases dropped but not as steeply as the overall rich and the poor, the working poor and using subjects already part of national case load and therefore is a higher the professional class. Many documents surveys such as the National Longitu- percentage of welfare recipients. come to me through contacts here in dinal Survey of Youth which began in Those who have made it off welfare and Washington, around the country and the 1979. Funds were provided by several of those working while still on welfare world. A recent small but important the nationally known foundations and typically have low paying jobs with few paperback book, sent by the National agencies. Useful appendices with graphs benefits. Although people have been Partnership for Women and Families point out the effects of work and work- able to get jobs and, in combination with their recommendation, seems to me ing conditions for parents which are with work supports, have higher income to be one NCFR members would related to poor child outcomes in school than before, many single parent families appreciate knowing about and perhaps and poor and uncompassionate care for are living in extreme poverty. The hopes using in classes. The book is “The the elderly and other family members. that working parents would result in Widening Gap: Why America’s Working WELFARE OUTCOME SINCE 1996 better child outcomes has not been fully Families Are in Jeopardy and What Can Researchers from the Urban Institute realized. Children in welfare families Be Done About It.” The author, Jody have been studying the effects of the and those who have left welfare “are at Heymann is Director of Policy for the 1996 changes in their project, “Assessing similar risk” and child outcomes seem to Harvard University Center for Society the New Federalism.” To help inform the improve only when there are improved and Health. The thesis of the book is debate, their major findings have now financial resources. Although there that society has failed to adjust to the been summarized in a new book, appears to have been a “virtuous circle” changes in work which have taken place “Welfare Reform: The next Act,” edited so far, we do not know what will happen in the past century and a half in where by Alan Weil and Kenneth Finegold. if the economy falters which would and how parents work. She states that, (www.urban.org) lower opportunities for work and would “Our society—like any society with a probably diminish federal and state future—must continually reexamine how As has been widely reported, the major funds for benefits now available. best to approach at least three essential effect has been a more than 50% drop in issues: what values the society will the number of families on welfare, but WELFARE IN CONGRESS uphold, how the work of the society will whether the drop has been because of By October 1st of this year the welfare get done, and how future generations better economic times and governmental laws of 1996 must either be revised or extended. Working toward this dead- line, the House passed their bill in May EXECUTIVE REVIEW continued from page 4 and the Senate passed theirs in June. There will have to be reconciliation. For second children. Because of the promis- studies using an epidemiologic model, the House and the Senate, work is the ing results that have emerged due to the and if the data are properly analyzed “methodologically sound longitudinal and interpreted, then these studies can central goal for welfare recipients. Both studies,” these studies have attracted the provide strong and reliable evidence that have passed versions which would attention from policymakers. can be added to our already burgeoning require 24 hours a week in work, but the arsenal of public policy efforts. This Democratic Senate specified 30 hours a That’s the beauty of the epidemiologic means that research will move beyond week of work related activities, while the framework: it gives the researchers the the “academic journal on the library Republican House specified 40. Any tools to determine what factors might shelf” and have the potential of leading resolution will demand compromises. contribute, for example, to better parenting to a call to action on which to base The Senate is offering more money for or the reduction of juvenile violence. policy decisions that will affect family childcare but House members claim Researchers can then monitor individual well-being of Americans. more money for childcare will not fit the factors over time in longitudinal studies. budget. I have not seen mention of care Ultimately, they can show that a given As always, I welcome your comments! for elders or other family members. factor, such as home visiting, lead to a Michael L. Benjamin, M.P.H. Neither the House nor Senate version demonstrated change in outcomes. NCFR Executive Director would fully meet the requirements for My concluding thought: if family science E-mail: [email protected] an adequate “caring” society, sincerely researchers conduct well-designed Family Policy continued on page 6 NCFR Report September 2002 5 CFLE Directions

How NCFR Members Assess the CFLE Program he recent NCFR membership sents 17% of organizational expenses. respondents stated that they were plan- survey provided some interesting Of those who responded to the Internet ning to apply and 22% were undecided; Tinformation about what members survey, 22% thought this was too high, 9% of the mail respondents planned to think about the CFLE program. 390 31% thought it was just right, 11% apply and 13% were undecided. NCFR members responded through the thought it was too low, and 36% had no 75% of those responding on the Inter- Internet; another 45 returned surveys opinion. For those who responded net and 77% of those responding to the sent through the mail. Responses through the paper survey, 13% thought paper survey felt that the CFLE program between the two groups were fairly it was too high, 42% just right, 9 % too was consistent with the mission of NCFR. consistent. low and 35% had no opinion. When asked to provide an alternate percentage Two of the eight questions geared spe- When asked to rank the importance of of funds, the allocation averaged out to cifically to the CFLE program dealt with various member services, 5 = very im- CFLE representing 16% rather than the the possibility of offering the CFLE portant, 1 = not at all important, both current 17%. designation through an examination the Internet responses and the mail rather than the current portfolio review responses ranked the CFLE program as Of those who responded via the Internet process. For the questions “Would the 3. But when asked to rank the five most to the question “Should NCFR allocate CFLE designation be more viable if it important services in order of 5 -1 with more resources for marketing CFLE,” were obtained through completion of a five being the most important, both 31% said more, 26% about the same, multiple-choice exam rather than the groups ranked the CFLE program as a 4. 16% less and 27% didn’t know or had current portfolio review process,” 14% The only other member service that no opinion. Paper survey respondents of the Internet respondents and 11% of received a 4 was the Journal of Marriage included 26% who thought more the paper survey respondents said yes; and Family. All other services received should be allocated, 21% about the 41% and 47% said no and 45% and either 2 or 3; none received 1 or 5 when same, 13% less and 42% didn’t know or 44% were undecided. all scores were considered. had no opinion. Finally, the survey asked members to Another question asked members to 31% of the Internet respondents were respond to the question “What do you respond to the current expense alloca- CFLEs as compared with 39% of those think employers might believe about tion for each of NCFR’s departments. responding through the mail. Of those certification if it were obtained through The CFLE department currently repre- not already certified 18% of the Internet CFLE Directions continued on page 7 FAMILY POLICY CIVITAS continued from page 5 Have you even wondered if there is one trusted source of information on child devoted to making sure the next genera- development that could help make your job easier? Provide you with the tion is raised to maximize their potential answers you’re looking for in a fast and interesting way? Look no further, for good and healthy citizenship. In Civitas – a not-for-profit communications group that creates and distributes addition to positive governmental child development tools- has a series of resources available just for you. policies, there is great need for change in If you’re like thousands of professionals who have used these products the workplace to include flexibility in successfully with their clients, you might be interested in learning more about work time to care for families, opportu- our videos. Begin with Love, a 30-minute video hosted by Oprah Winfrey in nity for education, assistance in adequate English and Cristina Saralegui in Spanish, provides new parents with answers health care, both physical and mental, to help give babies the best possible start in life. Grandparenting: Enriching Lives and sufficient income to enable working –features the most up-to-date information on child development and highlights parents to rise from poverty. the profound effect grandparents can have on the lives of their grandchildren It is unlikely that the values of Heymann’s while providing ideas for making the most of this invaluable relationship. caring society will be fully exemplified in If a book is more your style, look no further. Civitas recently released this year’s reauthorization but we can hope that lawmakers, or their staffs, will Understanding Children, which addresses over one hundred of the most read and profit from the research work pressing questions facing today’s parents and caregivers, while offering helpful exemplified in these two books. advice compiled from the world’s leading childcare experts. Margaret Feldman, Ph.D. To learn more about Civitas or to order any of these products, log on to NCFR Policy Representative www.civitas.org or call 1-800-TO-BEGIN (for videos) E-mail: [email protected]

NCFR Report September 2002 6 CFLE DIRECTIONS continued from page 6 completion of a multiple-choice exam for Competency Assurance (NOCA) and as a profession and/or the existence of rather than the current portfolio review the Veterans Administration Transition the CFLE designation. While we think it process.” The responses were as follows: Assistance Conferences, review of other would be in NCFR’s best interest to for Internet respondents, 21% thought it certifying organization’s practices, and provide the CFLE designation through might make the designation more valu- exposure to articles and newsletters from an objective, legally defensible exam, it able, 26% about the same, 12% less the certification industry, confirmed that will not necessarily result in an increase valuable and 42% did not know or had a professionally-developed and adminis- in employer’s awareness of the designa- no opinion. For paper survey respon- tered multiple-choice exam was the in- tion. And it may in fact result in a de- dents, 16% thought it would make the dustry standard. In addition, a formal cline in applications. We have had very designation more valuable, 40% about examination is a more objective and few people tell us that they want to wait the same, 11% less valuable and 35% legally defensible form of evaluation. to apply until the exam is in place; did not know or had no opinion. rather most people have said they want Given this information, we still strongly to be sure to apply before an exam is The HumRRO CFLE survey conducted believe that NCFR should invest in the required. Few people are excited about last year also included a question about development of an examination for the the prospect of taking a test. the portfolio process versus an examina- CFLE designation. However, we think it tion but phrased the question in a differ- may be prudent to postpone the devel- Before we invest $50,000 - $80,000 in ent way. Respondents to that survey opment of the exam for a year or two. In the development of an examination we were asked to rank their level of confi- the meantime we would pursue other are instead launching a comprehensive dence in the quality of the CFLE certifi- efforts in order to increase the likelihood and multifaceted effort at increasing cation if it were administered through an that once an examination is available, it employer awareness of students and exam rather than a portfolio process. In will be welcomed and utilized. professionals with training in family life education. that survey, 8% reported much more In reviewing the marketing analysis confidence 44% felt they would have provided by HumRRO and Michael NCFR has at its disposal a number of more confidence and 43% said there Hamm and Associates, it became clear relatively low-cost, easily implemented would be no difference, 4% would have that the reason more people are not activities/efforts that would increase less confidence and 1% much less confi- pursuing the CFLE designation or em- recognition and awareness of family life dence. The audiences for these two sur- ploying people that are certified, is not education as a profession and the CFLE veys were different (NCFR membership the fact that the application process is designation as the preferred professional versus a randomly-selected sample of conducted through a portfolio review credential. NCFR can take advantage of family life educators and FLE employers process rather than a multiple choice these opportunities and actively involve throughout the country). While the exam, but rather the fact that they are NCFR membership and other stakehold- HumRRO survey respondents were a bit not really aware of family life education ers in this effort. The majority of these more confident in an exam-based certifi- CFLE Directions continued on page 8 cation process, neither response group showed a marked preference for an exam CERTIFIED FAMILY LIFE EDUCATORS over the current portfolio review process. CERTIFIED FAMILY LIFE EDUCATORS What does this all mean to the CFLE Following is a list of Certified Family Life Educators designated since program? Overall the responses show March 15, 2002. (* - Provisional) strong support for the CFLE designation Alabama Kansas Missouri Pennsylvania within the NCFR organization. Most Angela Hardy * Deanell French * Peggy North-Jones Sharon Myers * members feel the CFLE program is con- Sarah Johnson * Karla Parman * Judith Turnbaugh * Arizona Erin Krause * Tennessee sistent with the mission of NCFR, that it Gloria Gabler Jessica Shirk * Nebraska is an important member service, and that Angel Kramer Allan Kennedy * Wilhelmina Williams the amount of expense allocated to the Florida Kentucky Nichols * administration of the program is appro- Melanie Bazarte Heather Hoskins * Christine Psota * Texas priate. Ideally we would have liked to see Martha Campbell Wen-Hsing Cheng * Michigan New Mexico a higher percentage for the number of Genevieve John Sandra Renick * Jennifer Ringel Jeanette Frey * Faith Ybarra * Joan Roberts members that planned to apply for the Cherrise Wilks * Colin Jenkins * CFLE certification (only 18%) but can Christy Johnkoski- North Carolina Utah Melinda Bennett * Jerry Cook focus on educating the 22% that were Illinois Tomasi * Latresa Webster Scott Erickson * Jeff Fish * Brenda Knapp * undecided about the benefits of holding Phillips Dixie Greenwood * the designation. Michelle Kruss * Nancy Lahring-Boyer * Debra Miller * Aaron Larson Ohio Leisha Olney * FUTURE STEPS Indiana Rebecca Pasko Jennifer Dailey * David Thorne * For the past few years I have been in- Reba Colley Andreas Philaretou Jennifer O’Malley * Delphine Portee * Wisconsin creasingly convinced that NCFR should Deborah Threatt * develop an examination to replace the Oregon Sarah Hotchkiss Janet Vannest Brenda White * Katherine Short * current portfolio review process. My attendance at the National Organization

NCFR Report September 2002 7 Members in the News Donations Obituary The following persons have contributed donations since May 2002. Their generosity Jean Ann Griffin Glass, CFLE, aids NCFR in continuing its programs and awards. of Covina, California, passed General Fund Annual Conference Fund away March 24, 2002. Letha Chadiha – Ann Arbor, MI Lane Powell, CFLE – Lubbock, TX She had been an NCFR member For more information on contributing to NCFR, contact: since 1988. Michael L. Benjamin, NCFR Executive Director, 3989 Central Ave. NE, Suite 550, Minneapolis, MN 55421 Toll free: 888-781-9331 ext. 21 or [email protected] CFLE DIRECTIONS CORRECTION In the March 2002 issue it was noted that Maureen Blankemeyer made a donation continued from page 7 to the General Fund. It should have stated that the donation was on behalf of efforts can be implemented with funds Margaret Arcus, CFLE, Deborah Gentry, CFLE, Bron Ingoldsby, CFLE, and from within the current CFLE budget. Kathleen Gilbert, CFLE. NCFR apologizes for the mistake. NCFR has identified three stakeholders who have something to gain by increas- NCFR REPORT – Family Focus on … ing awareness of family life education as Call for Topic Papers a profession. NCFR is in a position to function as a clearinghouse with these Issue Topic Deadline for Topic Section stakeholders and to work with them to December 2002 Medical Technology & Families October 1 increase awareness among consumers of 2003 Family Focus topics will be decided based on member input and discussions family life education and among poten- at this year’s annual conference. tial employers. These stakeholders in- We continue to welcome your suggestions and offers to write or be willing to be clude: NCFR Affiliate Councils, NCFR interviewed by our journalist, Dr. Nancy Giguere. Approved Academic Programs, and CFLEs. NCFR will work closely with If you have data, research or practice articles for any of these topics, or know of each stakeholder group to take advan- outstanding persons who can be interviewed or taped please call or e-mail Michael tage of the marketing/public relations Benjamin immediately at 888-781-9331, ext. 21 or [email protected]. opportunities available. NCFR’s efforts Let us hear from you about other topics that you would like to see published in will prove beneficial for each group as the Report. they all stand to gain by increased recog- nition and value of family life education as a profession. Over the next two to ON THE NET three years NCFR will work aggressively to implement these activities. The intent Access NCFR’s website at: www.ncfr.org is that these efforts will help to establish family life education and the CFLE desig- To reach NCFR headquarters: John Pepper nation so that should NCFR choose to [email protected] [email protected] develop a CFLE exam in the future, it To reach specific staff members: Jeanne Ryberg will be welcomed and utilized. Michael L. Benjamin [email protected] I will discuss in detail our plan to work [email protected] Judy Schutz with identified stakeholders to increase Lynda Bessey [email protected] the visibility and value of the family life [email protected] Sasha Smith education profession and the CFLE [email protected] designation in the next CFLE Report Dawn Cassidy column. In the meantime, if you would [email protected] Cindy Winter like more specific information about this Nikki Cunningham [email protected] effort, please contact me at [email protected] To reach NCFR President [email protected] Laura Eiklenborg Carol Darling: Dawn Cassidy, M.Ed., CFLE [email protected] [email protected] NCFR Certification Director E-mail: [email protected] NCFR Report September 2002 8 Annual Conference

Where Can You Find an Environment of Discovery, Intellectual Challenge, and Debate? ttend the 2002 Theory Construc- strives to create an environment of dis- David Demo and David Klein discuss- tion and Research Methodology covery, intellectual challenge, and debate ing papers by Don Swenson and by AWorkshop in Houston on for authors and colleagues who have Jim White and colleagues November 19th-20th. TCRM meets an- “works-in-progress” that could benefit
discussions of 18 working papers, nually as a pre-conference event at the from the collective wisdom and critique including an invited paper on Black beginning of the National Council on of informed scholars. Rather than formal Feminism as Identity Politics by April Family Relations Annual Conference. presentations of papers, TCRM sessions Few and Stacey Floyd-Thomas The TCRM 2002 theme is Bridging comprise informed discussions of work-
brainstorming sessions on Work and Theory and Research, echoing NCFR’s ing papers that are sent out in advance to Families and on Family and Child theme of Families Over the Life Course: all TCRM registrants. Assessment Bridging Research and Practice. For TCRM 2002, workshop highlights
a panel discussion on the new Our mission is to facilitate the creation include: Sourcebook of Family Theories and and refinement of theory and methods
an opening plenary session on Interro- Methods revision project, featuring the relative to the study of families. TCRM gating Structure and Function with newly selected editors, Alan Acock, Vern Bengtson, Katherine Allen, Peggye Dilworth-Anderson, and David Employment Matching Service Klein.
a closing plenary on Bridging Gender raduate students from Texas Woman’s University will manage the Employ- Theory and Research featuring invited ment Matching Service at the annual conference. This year’s service will speaker Janet Saltzman Chafetz, editor Gprovide both print versions of employment information and electronic of the Handbook of Gender Theory and databases. In this way, the service can be extended beyond the six days of the con- chair of sociology at the University of ference, aiding employers in following up with candidates they don’t have a chance Houston, with discussants Alexis to meet in Houston. Walker, Katherine Allen, and The Master’s and doctoral students spearheading these new options are enrolled in Kristine Baber. Leadership & Staff Development at Texas Woman’s University. Their attendance at All NCFR members are invited to come the Houston Conference will be their only in-person meeting during the semester- early to the conference to attend these long Internet course. While at the conference, they will be studying and visiting special sessions! Registration is only $40 with the outstanding leaders in the family field who gather each year at NCFR. Dr. ($25 for students) and includes advance Mary Bold of the TWU Department of Family Sciences will accompany them. Dr. copies of all 18 papers to be discussed in Bold teaches both online and on-campus graduate courses in Family Studies. the workshop sessions. A complete This year’s Employment Matching Service will include the traditional notebooks of TCRM 2002 schedule is included in the resumes and job listings that NCFR has made available in a designated room at each NCFR conference program and a sepa- conference. The new feature of electronic databases will be on display in the same rate registration form and TCRM 2002 room. At the end of the conference in Houston, the database of job applicants will program is available on the NCFR web be available to all participating employers. (Job applicants will have the option of site at http://www.ncfr.org/tcrm/ whether their resumes will appear in the database or be limited to the Conference default.htm. To receive a TCRM 2002 display). workshop schedule, registration form, or Our “hybrid” approach to the Employment Matching Service will be evaluated after reading packet ($20 without conference the conference. This will help NCFR in deciding how to continue to improve this registration), contact Libby Balter Blume, service to Conference attendees and NCFR members. Chair, TCRM 2002, P.O. Box 19900, Candidates are included in the display notebooks and the electronic database at no Detroit, MI, 48219-0900 or cost. Employers can list job openings at a cost of $25 per listing. [email protected]. Forms for participating in the Employment Matching Service are available in the Libby Balter Blume, CFLE Conference space of the NCFR website, www.ncfr.com. Information is also available Chair, TCRM from Dr. Mary Bold at TWU, [email protected]. E-mail: [email protected] Mary Bold, CFLE Texas Woman’s University Visit the National Extension Parenting Educators’ Framework website: E-mail: [email protected] http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/fcs/NEPEF.html

NCFR Report September 2002 9 Reuben Hill Award Recipients he winners of the Reuben Hill Van Laningham’s, Johnson’s and and family relationships over the life Award for the Best Research Amato’s paper uses a five-wave sample course, children’s mental health, and TArticles Published in 2001 are of 1,479 individuals to study one of the family policy, particularly in regard to William G. Axinn and Scott T. Yabiku for better-known empirical generalizations child abuse and neglect and alternative their article “Social Change, the Social in sociology of marriages and families: care placements. David R. Johnson is a Organization of Families, and Fertility the U-shaped relationship between Professor of Sociology and Human Limitation” (American Journal of Sociology marital duration and marital happiness. Development and Family Studies and 106: 1219-1261) and Jody Van Laning- They conclude that this U-shaped Director of the Survey Research Center ham, David R. Johnson, and Paul Amato pattern is most likely an artifact of cross- at Pennsylvania State University. His for their article “Marital Happiness, sectional research, and that the relation- research interests include marriage over Marital Duration, and the U-Shaped ship more likely is negative (that is, the life course, mental health and family, Curve: Evidence from a Five-Wave Panel marital happiness declines over time) rural-urban differences in mental health, Study” (Social Forces 79: 1313-1341). when other life-course variables are hormones and social behavior, marital taken into account. naming, quantitative longitudinal The Reuben Hill Award is given in research methods, and community memory of Reuben Hill, Regents’ Profes- Jody Van Laningham received her Ph.D. effects on child neglect. Paul Amato is a sor of Sociology, University of Minne- in Sociology in 1996 from the University Professor of Sociology, Demography, sota. Dr. Hill was a pioneer in the field of of Nebraska-Lincoln, specializing in the and Family Studies at Pennsylvania State Family Research, and a leader in NCFR. areas of family studies and research University. His research interests include methods and statistics. She is currently The Reuben Hill Award Committee, marital quality, the causes and conse- working at home and enjoying the full- chaired by Ted Greenstein of North quences of divorce, parent-child time care of her children ages 4 and 1. Carolina State University, reviewed relationships across the life course, Her research interests include marriage articles from nearly fifty professional and psychological well-being. journals. The award is given annually to an outstanding article that combines theory and research in the tradition of Make Plans Now to Submit a Proposal the award’s namesake. This year, two articles were so highly evaluated that the for the 2003 Conference in Vancouver award is shared. lthough it seems like a long time makes it possible for most NCFR members Axinn’s and Yabiku’s paper examines the away, the 2003 Annual Confer- residing on the east coast or in the south role of the social organization of the A ence will be upon us before we to catch an early morning flight on family as a link between macro-level know it, so it is a good idea to start mak- Wednesday and arrive in Vancouver in social change and individual-level ing initial plans for attendance and partici- time for the first session. Moreover, with childbearing decisions. They use multi- pation by submitting a proposal. Sunday free, some members may choose to stay an extra day in Vancouver to do level hazard models to analyze data The theme for the conference will be What some sightseeing. Vancouver has an abun- provided by 1,395 married women from is the Future of Marriage? Many of the dance of museums, cultural activities, south-central Nepal. They find strong sessions on our program will revisit Jessie great restaurants, and stunning scenery. evidence for contextual effects – that Bernard’s fundamental question, posed in non-family services and organizations her classic 1972 book, The Future of Mar- The formal call for proposals will appear near communities increase fertility riage. We will explore this question from a in the conference packets at the 2002 limitation of women – on childbearing variety of perspectives, with attention to Conference and in the December NCFR behavior. race and ethnicity, gender, social class, and Report. A separate call for proposals will William G. Axinn is Professor of Sociol- sexual orientation. appear on the NCFR web site next month. However, if you are planning to ogy at the University of Michigan. His Our first plenary speaker at the conference submit a paper to the program, then it work studies the relationships among will be Andrew Cherlin from Johns would be useful to start thinking now social change, family organization, Hopkins University, who will address the about your presentation. Keep in mind intergenerational relationships, marriage, topic from the perspectives of demography that not all proposals are accepted, and and social policy. Curiously, the last time cohabitation and fertility in the United your proposal will stand a better chance of the NCFR conference theme referred to States and Nepal. His research also acceptance if it describes research (or marriage was in 1958, when the theme includes the development of new theoretical work) that is either completed was “Marriage, the Family, and the NCFR.” methods for collecting social science or close to completion. I am hoping that data. His teaching centers on the family, In addition to having a great program, we the 2003 Conference will be one of the the life course, fertility and research will be meeting in beautiful Vancouver, best ever, but we need your help to make methods. Scott T. Yabiku is a Ph.D. British Columbia, which should be a big this happen! candidate at the University of Michigan draw. In 2003, the conference will begin Paul R. Amato, Penn State Univ. studying family, life course, demography, mid-day on Wednesday and finish on 2003 Annual Conference Program Chair and population and environment. Saturday evening. This arrangement E-mail: [email protected]

NCFR Report September 2002 10 NCFR Honors Its Colleagues for Outstanding Work: 2002 NCFR Award Winners Announced CFR seeks to honor those who the founders of the International Section, NCFR Student Award for Excellence as a have distinguished themselves in a past chair of the Section, and a past Student With High Potential for Contribu- Nthe family field. The following NCFR Board Member. tion to the Field of Family Studies: Jason D. awards will be presented during NCFR Hans, CFLE, Univ. of Missouri-Columbia. President Carol Darling’s Presidential Reuben Hill Award for the Best Research Outstanding Research Proposal From a Address on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2:15 pm. Article of 2001: William Axinn and Scott T. Yahiku, Univ. of Michigan; Jody Van Feminist Perspective in Honor of Jessie Jan Trost Outstanding Contribution to Laningham, Univ. of Nebraska-Lincoln, Bernard: Abbie Goldberg, Univ. of Massa- Comparative Family Studies Award: Bron and David R. Johnson, and Paul R. chusetts/Amherst, for her proposal, The Ingoldsby, CFLE, Brigham Young Univ. Amato, Penn State Univ. (two articles tied Transition to Parenthood for Lesbian Cou- This award is given in honor of Jan Trost, for first place). See article on page 10. ples: Implications for Mothers’ Psychologi- Uppsala Univ., Sweden. He was one of cal Well-being and Relationship Quality. Outstanding Contributions to Feminist Scholarship Paper Award in Honor of Jessie Burgess Award Recipient Bernard: Lori A. McGraw, Oregon State Univ. for her paper, Meanings of Sister- auline Boss, professor of family Znaniecka Lopata, Vern Bengston, hood and Disability: Narratives from social science at the University of Rueben Hill, Joann Aldous, Glen Elder, White, Able-Bodied Sisters PMinnesota, Twin Cities, is this and Mavis Hetherington. year’s recipient of the Burgess Award. The award is named after Ernest Bur- These two awards are given in memory Widely known nationally and interna- gess, a major early figure in family schol- of Jessie Bernard, former NCFR Board tionally for her work on ambiguous loss arship and a member of the department Member, and pioneer in the field of and boundary ambiguity, Professor Boss of sociology at the University of Chicago Feminism and Family Studies. will give the Burgess Lecture at this between 1916 and 1951. He was one of The Marie Peters Award for Outstanding year’s NCFR Annual Conference. Her the co-founders of NCFR and served as Contributions in the Area of Ethnic topic is “Ambiguous Loss and Boundary its fourth president. Professor Burgess Minorities will be announced during the Ambiguity: Lessons Learned from Three was also a co-founder of NCFR’s first Awards Ceremonies, but will be pre- Decades of Research, Theory, and Prac- journal, now the Journal of Marriage and sented in 2003 during the Peters Award tice.” Burgess honorees also receive a Family. After his retirement, friends and Address. This award is given in memory cash award, travel expenses to the con- colleagues donated money to establish of Marie F. Peters, a pioneer in the study ference, and a plaque commemorating the award in his name. of Ethnic Families, a former NCFR Board their achievements. The Burgess Award and Lecture is member, and leader and one of the Several members of NCFR served on the given every other year and is sponsored founders of the Ethnic Minorities award committee. One committee mem- by the Research and Theory Section of Section. ber said, “Honoring Pauline Boss is NCFR. Immediate past chairs of the The Ernest Burgess Award for an Outstand- particularly appropriate in this post- section organize the award process. The September 11 period when so many ing Career in Family Research and Theory present chair of the section is a member will be given to Pauline Boss, Univ. of people are experiencing ‘ambiguous of the committee. Jane F. Gilgun chaired loss.’ Her ideas are of central importance Minnesota, on Saturday, Nov. 23, 3:45 this year’s Burgess Award Committee as p.m. in conjunction with Dr. Boss’ in that area—and it’s clearly an area that a non-voting member. Committee really matters across so many domains.” delivery of the Burgess Award Address members were Nan Crouter who is the (see article at left). Boss and her students traveled to New current chair of the Research and York several times to work with families Theory Section, Robin Jarrett, Gregory The following appreciation awards will who lost loved ones in the September Harris, Jay Mancini, Lynn Blinn Pike, be presented during the Annual Business 11th attack on the World Trade Center. Walter Schumm, Patricia Voydanoff, and Meeting, Friday, Nov. 22, 6:00 p.m. Other committee members noted her Gayle Ricks. long-term commitment to the promo- 2002 Annual Conference Program tion of family scholarship, as an editor of Jane Gilgun Chair: Alan Booth, Penn State Univ. the Sourcebook on Marriage and the Fam- Chair, Burgess Award Committee Local Arrangements Committee Chair: ily, as a participant in the pre-conference [email protected] Maxine Hammonds-Smith, CFLE, workshop on Theory Development and Texas Southern Univ. Research Methodology, and as president Have you registered for the of NCFR. Conference yet? Awards given by various NCFR Sections and Focus Groups will be Professor Boss joins a distinguished Register before fees increase after presented during their respective group of family scholars who are recipi- October 15th. Online: www.ncfr.org membership meetings. ents of the award. Past awardees include or call/fax in your registration. Alice Rossi, John Gottman, Helena NCFR Report September 2002 11 Section News

Feminism and Family Studies Section ’m writing this column the week the different religious traditions (Protestant be held on Saturday, from 5-6:30. The Western Circuit Court ruled the and Muslim), I could not understand session is entitled “Reconciling Spiritual- IPledge of Allegiance unconstitutional, how we could say there was justice and ity and Feminism: Religious Identity and due to the “under God” clause. The deci- freedom for all when we claimed that our Beliefs in Cultural Contexts.” This ses- sion and its media coverage took me country was under one God. sion is co-sponsored with the Ethnic Minorities section. Beth Miller, who back to my school days, when I learned And I’m still fascinated by the idea of organized and moderated last year’s the pledge. As my mother told the story, I different religious and spiritual traditions powerful and well attended session, came home puzzled about how we could and how they intersect with our philoso- “Balancing on the Edge of a Dual Lens,” pledge “with liberty and justice for all” phies and lives. This interest spurred me will serve as moderator for this special while asserting that we are “under God.” to organize a special session at NCFR’s session. Speakers will include FFS sec- At age 6, coming from a family with two upcoming annual conference, which will tion members Sally Gallagher on Evan- gelical Christianity and feminism and Batya Hyman on Jewish lesbians and Family Policy Section feminism, among other speakers. It promises to be an engaging and stimulat- he Family Policy Section received The two roundtables sponsored by the ing session! many outstanding proposals for Family Policy Section include one on I’m delighted to be co-sponsoring many Tthe 2002 conference in Houston. designing and teaching a course on sessions with other sections at the NCFR We will be sponsoring five symposia, family law and another on the role of meetings. I think it’s great that feminist thirteen posters, and two roundtables. parental involvement in the delivery of perspectives and approaches are being All of the presentations will address social services to children and families. infused across the NCFR program. If you current issues that converge at the busy At least two other sessions that may be are wondering how to know if a session intersection of families and public policy. was submitted to FFS or is one that is of interest to family policy section mem- being co-sponsored with another section, Two symposia will focus on welfare re- bers in particular are the Work/Life an easy way to tell is if there is a recorder form. One will discuss the link between Summit, a pre-conference workshop assigned to the session. The FFS section research findings and welfare policy scheduled for Wednesday, November while the other will focus on parental established the post of recorder so that 20th, and a special Public Policy Seminar we would be able to distribute via our advocacy in welfare reform. A third panel (“Getting Your Policy Grant Funded”) will address family services and child newsletter short abstracts of each ses- presented by Karen Bogenschneider on sion. Before the conference, we’ll be care from both military and civilian Friday, November 22nd. perspectives, the fourth will explore sending an electronic listing of the ses- families and aging issues with an empha- Presiders and discussants have all been sions we are sponsoring and co-sponsor- sis on challenges facing informal selected for the five symposia. However, ing. If you are not on our section’s email caregivers, and the fifth symposium will there is still a need for recorders. Our listserv, our section newsletter editor, examine various strategies for converting tentative plan is to ask the recorders to Becky Warner, is willing to send informa- policy research to action. summarize each session and circulate tion from the section to you, upon re- quest. Contact her at [email protected]. There are two new features being intro- their summaries via the section listserv. duced this year with respect to poster Anyone who is interested in being a One more update about the NCFR An- sessions. First, all section posters are recorder should contact Steve Wisensale, nual Conference: our section will be scheduled within the same time frame Section Chair, at selling t-shirts to raise money for the and they are confined to the same physi- [email protected]. In the Jessie Bernard Scholarship fund. You can cal space, making it more convenient for meantime, if anyone has any policy- pre-order shirts from Ramona Oswald interested viewers. And second, each oriented information they would like to ([email protected]) or come to the section will select their top poster and share with their fellow section members, conference with money to spare. T-shirts honor the author(s) for their achieve- they should do so through the Family make great gifts too! We look forward to ment. Poster topics this year include, but Policy Section’s listserv address at displaying our t-shirts at the conference are not limited to, foster care; policy [email protected]. and supporting our awards for students and new professionals. initiatives to strengthen families; work Steven Wisensale and family issues; child custody; food Chair, Family Policy Section Anisa Zvonkovic security under welfare reform; and Chair, Feminism and Family Studies Section E-mail: [email protected] issues related to schools, families, and E-mail: [email protected] communities. NCFR Report September 2002 12 Research and Theory Section Ethnic Minorities he 2002 program for Research search; Families and Technology: An Section and Theory looks very strong, and Agenda for Research; and Reducing the TI hope many members will come Stress of Concurrent Planning for Chil- he 2002 Annual Conference to Houston to take part in it! One high- dren in Foster Care: The “Lifelines for sessions sponsored by this section light will be a methods workshop on Kids” Program. Research and Theory is Tpromise to bridge theory, research, Friday, November 22nd at 8:30 a.m. also co-sponsoring several symposia and and practice over the life course of ethnic Entitled, “Using Multilevel Modeling to paper sessions with other sections. families. Highlights include: Analyze Dyadic Data”, the workshop will The section will hold its annual business
A Special session co-sponsored with be presented by Drs. Aline G. Sayer, meeting from 7-8:15 p.m. on Friday, Feminism and Family Studies. Recon- Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study, November 22nd. All members are en- ciling Spirituality and Feminism: Reli- Harvard University, and Mary Maguire couraged to come. We especially wel- gious Identity and Beliefs in Cultural Klute, RMC Research Corporation, Den- come students, new professionals, and Contexts concerns the spirituality and ver. The presenters are not only excellent those new to NCFR. It’s a good chance to religion of women and the social con- methodologists, but they are great teach- see old friends and make new ones. After texts that impinge upon them as they ers who are able to make complex meth- the business meeting (and the traditional confront sexism and reconcile feminist ods user-friendly. You won’t want to miss dessert reception), there will be a meet- beliefs within their cultural traditions. their presentation. ing at 8:30 to discuss plans for the sec-
Diverse ethnic identities in families A panel of over 30 family scholars from ond edition of the Sourcebook of Family for adolescents as well as adults. the U.S. and Canada did a superb job Theories and Methods. Anyone who is
Immigration and the Family: a cut- reviewing submissions to our section interested in possibly contributing a ting-edge research update. (their names will appear in the NCFR chapter to that volume, who would like
The Marie Peters Award will be pre- program). I especially encouraged sym- to provide early input to the editors sented this year. posium submissions because they are about content, or who is simply curious such a good way of showcasing research about the plans, should plan to attend. CONGRATULATIONS to our 2002- efforts that fit together well. Symposia to The first edition of the Sourcebook has 2004 section officers: Farell J. Webb, look forward to in November include: been a source of pride (and revenue) for Chair-Elect, April L. Few, Secretary-Trea- The Coparental Relationship and Non- the section, and we want to do all we can surer, and Student/New Professional residential Fathering; Work in the to support the creation of a strong sec- Representatives, Heather Hathaway Working-Class: Low-Wage Jobs and ond edition. Miranda and Ani Yazedjian! Special thanks Work-Family Challenges; The Family to the other hardworking members of Hope to see you in Houston! Ecology of Children’s Media Use: Evi- this section also nominated for these dence From the PSID Child Develop- Ann C. Crouter positions. Kudos for your teamwork! Chair, Research and Theory Section ment Supplement; Sibling Relation- MENTORING PROGRAM. M. Dewana E-mail: [email protected] ships: A Neglected Area of Family Re- Thompson developed comprehensive information on the EM Section mentoring program that includes an Education and Enrichment Section overview of the program, guidelines, and the responsibilities of mentors and CFR members have quite an exciting conference awaiting them in Houston! mentees. Gracias, muchas gracias to The Plenary Panels, Special Sessions and RUPS (Research Updates for Prac- Dewana for her time and effort in match- Ntitioners) are filled with cutting edge issues that will stretch our minds and ing mentees with mentors in the Section! strengthen our skills for working with families across the lifespan. Volume II of the Resource Manual for Plan to attend the Education and Enrichment Section Meeting, scheduled for 8:30 – Teaching about Ethnic Families is avail- 9:45 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 22nd. Exciting initiatives will be unveiled, outstanding able by special request to Adriana J. awards will be bestowed, and energetic new officers and committee members will Umaña-Taylor, CFLE ([email protected]). seek your feedback and input. EM Students and New Professionals are In addition to registering at the hotel and making your travel plans, start thinking encouraged to attend all the S/NP events about your proposal for next year’s conference. Proposals accepted in the Education at the conference. Your S/NP representa- and Enrichment section include rigorous evaluations backed up by systematic data tives are Adriana J. Umaña-Taylor, CFLE collection. What data are you currently collecting on your most innovative pro- ([email protected]) and M. Dewana grams? Who might you collaborate with to prepare a winning proposal for next Thompson ([email protected]). year’s conference? Let your good ideas percolate, and plan to network with potential I am looking forward to seeing you at our collaborators at this year’s annual meeting. next exciting conference in Houston! I look forward to seeing you in Houston. This is going to be a great conference! Estella A. Martinez Pat Tanner Nelson, CFLE, Chair, Education and Enrichment Section Chair, Ethnic Minorities Section E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] NCFR Report September 2002 13 Family and Health Section Conference Highlights tion to the focus group meeting, this not received any information via the ave these dates on your calendar: section is sponsoring a special sympo- listserv in the past 6 months, please Nov. 20-Nov 24, 2002. The Family sium on “Grandparenthood: The Current contact John Pepper: [email protected] to SHealth Section is sponsoring a State of Research and Practice.” For more make sure that NCFR has your correct number of cutting edge presentations at information, contact Christine Price: e-mail address. the 2002 Annual Conference that will be [email protected]. Hope to see you in Houston in November. held in Houston, TX. A broad range of Listserv family health topics will be presented. We are relying on our Family and Health Ann Garwick Session topics include: “Adult Health Section listserv to share section news and Chair, Family Health Section and Family Caregiving,” “Family information with members. If you have E-mail, [email protected] Caregiving: Children with Special Health Needs,” and “Family Issues Related to Substance Abuse.” International Section Pre-Conference Invitation (Wednesday, Nov. 20th, 1-5 p.m.) he program is now complete for the 2002 Conference. The International James Pennebaker will be presenting a Section will sponsor two paper sessions (4 papers per session) on adoles- timely workshop on “Putting Stress into Tcence and marriage, one symposium on couple formation, one roundtable on Words: Writing, Health and Trauma.” We professional development experiences of international students/scholars, and one are co-sponsoring this workshop with poster session (12 posters) of diverse topics. Thanks to Richard Wampler, chair of the Family Therapy Section. the Family Therapy Section, we will be co-sponsoring a paper session on war and Family and Health Section Meeting trauma. All paper and poster sessions for the conference will be scheduled in sepa- (Saturday Nov. 23rd, 6:45-8:00 p.m.) rate time periods, so there might be adequate opportunity for you to attend any and Join other colleagues who are interested all presentations of interest to you. in the interaction between health, health The paper sessions will be organized slightly different this year. I requested that the care and the family. This is a great oppor- discussants play a more facilitative role in promoting an exchange between present- tunity to network and have a voice in ers and audience members. It is my hope that this will provide more opportunities planning next year’s agenda. for dialogue (which is sometimes not available at the end of sessions) among those interested in particular topics. The discussants will have the option of sharing their Special Session: “Family Management observations during the dialogue, but will not be expected to prepare a formal com- of Ethical Issues in Genetic Testing” mentary on each of the papers. (Friday, Nov. 22nd, 8:30-9:45 p.m.) Kathy Knafl & Marcia VanRiper will be The presentations will highlight the broad scope of international studies conducted presenting on “Family Management of by students and scholars. One paper will focus on a 17-nation (e.g., Australia, Ice- Ethical Issues in Genetic Testing” in a land, Japan, Sweden) study of marriage. Most of the presentations do not include special session sponsored by the Chronic such a large cross-national sample, but make a significant contribution in under- Illness and Disability Focus Group. This standing the cultural experiences within one or two countries. Collectively, the pre- focus group addresses research and sentations inform us about the experiences of individuals/families who currently practice issues related to families who preside (and/or have a cultural background from) the following nations: have members with developmental dis- Australia Iran Romania abilities or special health care needs. For Bahamas Ireland Singapore more information, contact Glenna Boyce: Belgium Israel Spain [email protected]. Canada Italy Sweden Issues in Aging Families Focus Group China Japan Taiwan (Friday, Nov. 22nd, 7:00-8:15 pm) Denmark Kenya Turkey You are invited to attend the focus group, Ecuador Korea Ukraine which provides a forum where gerontol- France Netherlands United Arab Emirates ogy/geriatric specialists and graduate Germany Norway United States of America students can network and exchange Iceland Poland Yugoslavia ideas related to aging families. In addi- Given this variety, I think the program provides an exciting opportunity to learn about many aspects of family/relationship dynamics around the globe. I wish to NCFR WANTS TO KNOW! thank everyone who took the time to submit a proposal this year; it was your time If you have moved or plan on moving, and effort that made the International Section’s presence in the program possible. please call: 1-888-781-9331 or e-mail: [email protected] As the 2002 program is finalized, I must already begin working on the 2003 Confer- with your new address. ence. If you have any comments or questions about the role of the International The U.S. Postal Service does not forward Section in the next conference, please contact me at the e-mail address listed below. publications like the Report or journals, Thank you for your interest and support for the section. and we want to make sure you receive them. Jacki Fitzpatrick, CFLE, Chair, International Section THANK YOU! E-mail: [email protected]

NCFR Report September 2002 14 Family Science Call for Manuscripts Special Issue of the Journal of Teaching in Marriage & Family Section “Assessment of Educational Programs” dedicated group of reviewers Guest Co-Editors: Karen Schmid, Indiana State University, and Laurie Kramer, University worked to identify an outstanding of Illinois. Questions may be directed to the guest co-editors at [email protected] A selection of papers, symposia, and or [email protected] posters to be sponsored by the Family Submission Deadline: November 15, 2002 Science Section for the upcoming Annual We are issuing a call for manuscripts that Note to authors: The Journal of Teaching in Conference to be held in Houston, focus on assessment of educational pro- Marriage and Family: Innovations in Family Texas. Some of the sessions complement grams in family science. The purpose of this Science Education, formerly known as the conference theme. Audrey Clark, special issue is to communicate to family Family Science Review, is an electronically Scott Wayne Plunkett, and Staceylee E. scientists about issues and approaches to disseminated journal. Manuscripts are Longmore will contribute to a paper assessment in family science and to begin to submitted to the lead guest co-editor for session entitled “Children, Communities, develop a scholarship of assessment in purposes of peer review. Next, they are sent and Collaboration.” Their paper will family science. Empirical, theoretical, and out to reviewers electronically, and re- emphasize university-community collabo- descriptive manuscripts are encouraged, turned with comments in the same fashion. ration to enhance the education of Head including concrete examples of experiences Finally, with the facilitation of Haworth conducting assessment and results. Press, Inc., accepted manuscripts are pub- Start employees. Tammy Harpel will lished electronically. A sample copy of the The term “assessment” has a variety of round-out a paper session entitled journal is available at: http:// meanings. The focus of this journal is educa- “Emerging Issues in Family Life Educa- www.haworthpressinc.com/store/ tional assessment in higher education, tion: Making It ‘Real’.” The focus of her SampleText/J226.pdf. defined as “the systematic collection, review, particular paper is teaching undergradu- and use of information about educational Manuscripts should conform to the guide- ate students about adult development. programs undertaken for the purpose of lines of the Publication Manual of the Ameri- Roundtables attract many conference improving student learning and develop- can Psychological Association (5th edition). attendees. Kathryn K. Rettig and Kerry ment” (Palomba & Banta, 1999, p. 4). Each manuscript should feature a first page listing the title of the work; name of L. Kriener-Althen will share their insights Articles are solicited on all aspects of assess- author(s); affiliation(s) of author(s); street about the challenges of using court ment in family science, including: and e-mail address for first author; and any records to conduct family research at a
Case studies of assessment in family acknowledgments. Subsequent pages of the traditional round table session. William science programs, including successes manuscript should not reveal the identity Rose and Douglas A. Abbott will host a and less successful approaches with of the author(s). An abstract of 200 or fewer teaching roundtable featuring service- lessons learned. words, along with up to 5 key words for learning experiences for family studies
Meta-analyses of assessment as practiced indexing purposes, should also be included. students. Jamilah L. Salim, Jennifer L. in family science. Submit in one of two ways: 1) Provide an Hardesty, and Jason D. Hans will
Ethical issues in assessment in family electronic copy of your manuscript, using facilitate another teaching roundtable science. Microsoft Word 6.0, via email attachment emphasizing the use of genograms to
Approaches to assessing values and to the lead guest co-editor of the Journal of teach family systems theory in the personal development. Teaching in Marriage and Family: Innova- tions in Family Science Education at this context of large classes.
Integration of assessment with program email address [email protected], or review. The section will sponsor a number of 2) Provide a file of the manuscript on a interesting and varied posters as well.
Examples of using the results of assess- computer diskette, using Microsoft Word Among them is one entitled “The ment to improve the program and stu- 6.0, to the lead guest co-editor of the jour- Perceptions of Quality of Life in the dent learning. nal at the street address given below. Addi- Aging Population” by Tabitha M. Smith
Involvement of stakeholders such as tionally, for either means, submit a process- and Joyce W. Fields. Family life and eth- employers, students, and alumni in ing fee of $15 to the lead guest co-editor. nic identity of Korean Americans will be assessment. Checks may be made out to the Family
Assessment of specific aspects of family Science Association, the sponsor of the addressed in a poster presentation by journal. Sun Wha Ok, Chung-Soon C. Kim, Anjin science programs such as service learn- Yoo, Eun Young Rhee, Hee-Young Paik, ing, internships, and capstone experi- Journal of Teaching in Marriage & Family: ences. Young Joo Nam and Songyi Park. “The Innovations in Family Science Education -
Special Issue: Assessment c/o Karen Role of Intimacy in the Development of Assessment of graduate programs. Schmid at the Office of Academic Affairs at Father Involvement” is the title of the Manuscripts should exemplify high quality Indiana State University, 208 Parsons Hall, poster to be presented by Kay P. Bradford scholarship of teaching and learning. Au- Terre Haute, IN 47809; Fax: 1-812-237- and Alan J. Hawkins. thors may visit the following website for 3607. Telephone: (812) 237-4452. additional insights about how the “scholar- Three other noteworthy poster sessions ship of teaching and learning” can be de- Reference will be given by Kennon Rider and fined (http://www.carnegiefoundation.org/ Palomba, C.A. & Banta, T.W. (1999). Assess- Carolyn Woody Graham on “Foster-Child CASTL/ index.htm). It is recommended that ment essentials: Planning, implementing, and Supervised Visitation With Non-Custo- manuscripts be approximately 20-22 pages improving assessment in higher education. San dial Parents: A Program Evaluation;” in length. Francisco: Jossey-Bass. Family Science continued on page 16 NCFR Report September 2002 15 Family Therapy Section The Family Therapy Section is pleased to announce an award of am looking forward to an exciting ers), FT will be sponsoring “Family $400 to Young-Kyong (Elena) Kim, NCFR Conference in Houston. Therapy and the Family Life Cycle,” fea- graduate student at Ohio State Uni- Initially, I was very concerned to see turing 6 papers on lifespan issues, includ- I versity, for her paper entitled, “Do a drop-off in submissions (nearly 40%) ing papers on Alzheimer’s caregivers, rural General Treatment Guidelines for that meant our space in the conference adolescents, and a paper from Switzer- Asian-American Families Have Appli- was limited to two paper sessions and land on communication in couples posters. However, because NCFR presen- whose first languages are different. cations to Specific Ethnic Groups? The Case of Culturally Competent tations now carry APA CEUs, Cindy On Friday, November 22nd, FT will open Winter and Alan Booth were willing to Therapy with Korean Families. with a symposium on “In Trauma’s Wake: Ms. Kim will be presenting her paper, let us add several special presentations to Assessment and Treatment of Families along with co-author, Roy Bean, at the program. James Pennebaker of the and Communities,” co-sponsored with the Houston Conference. Certificates University of Texas will be presenting a Jacki Fitzpatrick and the International half-day pre-conference workshop on Section. Organized by Kyle Killian, the of Merit will be awarded to four other Wednesday, November 20th, 1-5 p.m. presenters will address therapy issues student authors whose papers were Dr. Pennebaker is well known as a re- around resolving trauma at home (e.g., rated as excellent by a panel of Sec- searcher on the relationship between Everyday Traumas, Greg Janson) and tion officers: Martha Reuter (Univ. of trauma resolution and writing. His work- Abroad (Kosovo, Judith Landau). As if MN), Brandt Gardner (Texas Tech), shop, “Putting Stress into Words: Writ- that were not excitement enough, the FT Leigh Ann Simmons (Univ. of GA), ing, Health, and Trauma,” promises to be Section business meeting is scheduled for and Mark Adams (Texas Tech). an exciting chance for us to learn about Friday also (7-8:15 p.m.); come and join his work. Dr. Pennebaker has been fea- us for dessert, networking, and a little tured in a recent Monitor on the APA. He The workshops and paper sessions business. Kathleen Briggs will be taking should all carry APA CEUs; however, has shown that writing about traumatic over as FT Section Chair. events not only produces temporary there are many other NCFR sessions On Saturday, November 23rd, the FT relief but also reduces health problems that will carry APA CEUs as well. If you Section paper session, “Issues in Marriage over the longer term. The workshop will have not received a registration form, go and Family Therapy,” is scheduled for carry 4 hours of APA CEU credit and will to www.ncfr.org to get one. Register now 8:30-10 a.m. This session will pull to- be very affordable. Ann Garwick and the and come to an exciting conference in gether 5 excellent research papers on a Family and Health Section are co-spon- Houston in November! range of topics—cancer patients, race, soring this workshop with the FT Section. cultural competence, family businesses, Richard Wampler A second very special session planned on and impaired MFT students. Later on Chair, Family Therapy Section Thursday, November 21st at 8:30 a.m., Saturday, the FT Section is co-sponsoring E-mail: [email protected] will feature our own Dr. Pauline Boss a workshop, “Out of the Ivory Tower: reviewing her recent work on coping Community-Based Programs That Work,” NOW AVAILABLE! with the traumas of 9-11, “Ambiguous with Pat Nelson and the Education and Loss as a Framework for Intervention: Enrichment Section. This is planned as a NCFR Discussion Listservs Lessons Learned from 9-11.” Dr. Boss ‘nuts and bolts’ description of what Enrollment is open to all NCFR members. works. Featured programs include two and her associates have been traveling to NCFR Member Listserv New York City, first to work with trauma- on family-based programs for delinquent tized survivors of the 9-11 disaster and, adolescents, a program for families with a [email protected] more recently, to train therapists in her parent in prison, a program to assist Ethnic Minorities website: ambiguous loss model. Following the inner city families with a mentally ill www.asn.csus.edu/em-ncfr new poster session (12:15-2:15, no other member, and a parent education program [email protected] sessions scheduled, FT will have 9 post- in a Hispanic community. [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] continued from page 15 FAMILY SCIENCE [email protected] Barbara D. Ames, David R. Imig, and Jodi ested in becoming members—should [email protected] L. Spicer on “Creating a Longitudinal plan to attend the section business meet- [email protected] Family Data Base: A Model for Faculty- ing on Saturday evening. The dance [email protected] Citizen Engaged Partnerships;” and sponsored by the Student/New Profes- [email protected] Mary K. Starr and Gregory Paul sionals and all the other sections follows (Students/New Professionals) Hickman on “Influence of Humor and afterwards. Newly elected officers will To enroll, send your name, e-mail address, Family on the Initial Adjustment of Male begin their terms at that meeting. Be sure and the listserv(s) you wish to join to: and Female College Freshmen.” to come meet and support them. John Pepper at 763-781-9331, ext. 16; E-mail: [email protected]. The specific times for these sessions can Deborah Gentry, CFLE be found in the conference program. Chair, Family Science Section To sign up for the Ethnic Minorities Most certainly, those who are Family E-mail: [email protected] Section listserv, go directly to its website. Science Section members—or are inter-

NCFR Report September 2002 16 Affiliate Connection

A Conference You Don’t Want to Miss

s our Association of Councils Pro- Affiliated Councils Dinner and Leader- There will also be an exciting sympo- gram Chair for 2002, Dr. Britton ship Training Workshop on November sium entitled “Making the Most of Your A Wood has worked hard to plan 20th, 4:30-8:00 p.m. All affiliated coun- Affiliate” offered November 23rd, 8:30- an outstanding slate of events for confer- cils presidents or designate may attend 10:00 a.m. Five papers will be pre- ence attendees, particularly those who for free. All other affiliate officers and sented: “Starting from Scratch,” “Ex- are currently or wish to be very involved board members are encouraged to at- panding your Affiliate Council Member- ship Base,” “Making the Most of Student in affiliate councils. I’d like to highlight tend for a $25 fee (includes dinner). Involvement in Affiliate Councils,” some of these events and activities so Participants will choose to attend three that you can be sure to place them on “Helping Professionals — Helping Fami- of five possible roundtables on relevant your calendar. lies,” and “Building an Affiliate Team on topics to our affiliate organizations (e.g., the State Level.” All of the presenters are The Association of Councils and the developing a web site for the affiliate; experienced leaders and will have some Religion and Family Life Section will building strong board and committee excellent insights to share. sponsor a two-day pre-conference, No- structures; fund-raising suggestions for vember 19th and 20th, led by Green Finally, if all this talk about affiliate affiliates). Participants will also have councils leaves you wishing that you Cross co-founder Dr. Kathleen Regan opportunity to network with other Figley on the topic “Disaster, Trauma were more involved, be sure to attend affiliate leaders and share ideas for the Association of Councils Business and Compassion Fatigue: The Family keeping affiliates strong. Therapist in Post September 11th Meeting, November 22nd, 7:30-8:30 America.” (To learn more about the With the assistance of mini-grants made a.m. In addition, if your state, country, Green Cross Foundation, check out .) available from NCFR, we now have 23 or campus does not currently have an This workshop is designed to provide affiliates located on college or university affiliate council, plan to attend the Asso- ciation of Councils Luncheon on No- the basic tools necessary to respond to a campuses around the country! In an vember 23rd, 12:00-2:00 p.m. We will traumatic incident. Instructional mate- effort to provide support and to offer an offer the information necessary to orga- rial will include appropriate responses to arena in which to share ideas, we have nize a new council and highlight the terrorist incidents such as the Septem- organized a Breakfast Meeting for Stu- support available for such efforts. ber 11th attacks. Participants will learn dent Affiliates on November 21st, 8:30- I look forward to seeing you in Houston! to: define types of stress and related 10:30 a.m. I encourage all leaders, advi- symptoms; differentiate between thera- sors and members of campus affiliates Raeann R. Hamon, CFLE peutic intervention and traumatic stress to attend. President, Association of Councils management; demonstrate appropriate E-mail: [email protected] stress management techniques; identify compassion fatigue symptoms; describe CALL FOR APPLICATIONS FOR stress resiliency and self care strategies; and demonstrate compassion stress 2003 SCRIVNER RESEARCH GRANTS management techniques. Participants The American Psychological Foundation research award, all applicants must be may be students or professionals in (APF) is requesting applications for the graduate students and include a letter of disciplines which may respond to the Roy Scrivner Research Grants. The support from their supervising professor. emotional needs of children or adults Scrivner Fund provides two postdoctoral All research involving human subjects who are traumatized. A license to prac- grants ($4,000 each) consistent with the must have been approved by an IRB from tice is not necessary for enrollment. The goal of encouraging research on lesbian, the principal investigator’s institution when cost is $75 for conference registrants gay, and bisexual family psychology and the application is submitted. lesbian, gay, and bisexual family therapy. and $100 for those not attending the Deadline for applications: November 1, Researchers from all fields of the behav- NCFR Conference. The registration fee 2002 includes two lunches and workbook ioral and social sciences are encouraged to apply. Two $1,000 grants are also available For application guidelines and additional materials. I’d like to encourage each for graduate student research in this field, information, contact: affiliate to send at least one representa- with strong preference given to applicants Scrivner Small Grants Program tive to this workshop, as this training at the dissertation stage of their career. might be something that state affiliates American Psychological Foundation could sponsor within their own region Eligibility: To qualify for the post-doctoral 750 First Street, NE at a future date. research award, all applicants (including Washington, D.C. 20002-4242 co-investigators) must have a doctoral 202-336-5814 Another special event, particularly de- degree. To qualify for the pre-doctoral [email protected] signed for presidents and other leaders/ board members of our affiliates, is the NCFR Report September 2002 17 Texas Council on Northwest Council on Family Relations reetings from Family Relations the Pacific s the new president of the Texas GNorthwest! Council on Family Relations I Those of you who would like to be one of the first gathered in Vancou- A ver, BC know we had from our council to encourage you to begin planning now to attend the NCFR a thought provoking Annual Conference in Houston, Novem- and fun conference in ber 21st-24th. This will be a great oppor- June. Phyllis Johnson tunity for you to meet new people, learn started us off with a fascinating presenta- what’s happening in our professions and tion on the adaptation Northwest Council on Family Relations Conference attendees, see a great city. Houston has many of Vietnamese refu- back row, left to right: Dale Roberts, Jim Ponzetti, Rena Miyazaki, attractions that will intrigue you and gees to Canada, and Yoshie Sano, Anisa Zvonkovic, Jamie Wood, Bron Ingoldsby, entertain you. Everyone in TCFR and Cindy Winter, Jim White. Middle row: Karen Benzies, Sandy we ended the confer- Bailey, Lisa Mason, Sheila Marshall, Cheryl Jeffs. Front row: NCFR who are from Texas are getting ence by learning excited about hosting this great event. Phyllis Johnson, Lo Ming Wong, Hilary Rose, Margaret Arcus, about Safeteen, which Deborah Padgett Coehlo, Suzanne Smith. The TCFR Board and members will plan is a program that to meet and visit with you at several endeavors to teach adolescents how to stay watch the e-mail listserv for more details occasions during the conference. The safe in romantic relationships (avoiding about an election. The slate put forward local arrangements committee is plan- violence) and in other situations where is: President- Suzanne Smith; Vice-Presi- ning some wonderful events and is harassment might arise. dent- Sandy Bailey; Treasurer/Secretary- Hilary Rose. working hard to make sure any need you With another successful conference behind might have will be taken care of. You us, it is time to begin thinking about the In closing, if you are a member of the will want to experience the “Texas Hos- next biennial conference to be held in NWCFR (you live in Alberta, British Co- pitality” as many times as possible dur- 2004. With that in mind, and keeping to lumbia, Montana, Oregon, or Washington) ing the conference. our original intent of rotating conference but have not received any emails from us sites to ensure each state/province has at via the listserv please send me an e-mail so The recent TCFR Annual Conference I can have you added to the list. Traffic is least one conference that is convenient to was a wonderful experience for all who minimal, but important for allowing com- them on a fairly regular basis, we chose attended. We had a large number of munication outside of the conference. Montana as our next location. We are still students as well as professionals. The Otherwise, I hope to see all of you at the working out the details, but it will probably mix was good for both groups. We are business meeting in Houston as we dis- be in the Bozeman area. now finalizing plans for our next confer- cuss our plans for the following year. ence in April 2003 at Texas Woman’s Finally, we discussed new officers for the Suzanne Smith University in Denton. coming two years. They will be voted on President, Northwest Council The TCFR Board continues to grow and before we meet in Houston in November so E-mail: [email protected] become more active. Some of us will be sharing in a round table discussion at the National Conference concerning the Missouri Council on Family Relations transition of the TCFR from a group 1st Annual Conference who was struggling a few years ago to a he first MCFR Conference was held Lunch was included in registration, and vital and active affiliate. We are fortunate on the campus of the University of provided an opportunity for attendees to to have added representatives from the TMissouri in Columbia on May 3rd, interact with old friends and meet new military and from the state of Louisiana. 2002. The conference theme was Social acquaintances. In addition, a career fair I am grateful for the dedicated group of Policy and the Welfare of Families. was held during lunch and was heavily attended by students. A few students were board members who know are leading In addition to over 150 professionals and offered jobs on the spot, and many others for the future in TCFR. students in attendance from around the indicated that they had made contacts for state, distinguished out-of-state attendees November will be here quickly and potential summer employment. much preparation is being done. If there included Michael Benjamin, Executive is anyway in which the Texas Council on Director of NCFR, and Dr. Alan Hawkins, NCFR Past-President Stephen Jorgensen Family Relations can help you in relation professor in the School of Family Life at began the afternoon session by introduc- to the Annual Conference, let us know. Brigham Young University. ing Michael Benjamin. Michael shared his expertise on transforming family science We are looking forward to your presence The day started with a continental break- research into family public policy. Other in our great state. fast and comments by Roger Wilson, topics for afternoon sessions included Former Governor of Missouri. The morn- Richard Sale, CFLE domestic violence, court-mandated pro- ing presentations that followed focused on President, Texas Council grams, and Temporary Aid to Needy family demographics in Missouri, early head Families. E-mail: [email protected] start, family mediation, and foster care. Missouri continued on page 19 NCFR Report September 2002 18 MISSOURI continued from page 18 Pennsylvania/Delaware The final topic of the day was covenant marriage. Alan Hawkins presented data Council on Family Relations on attitudes toward covenant marriage, n October 9, 2002 the P/DCFR The Pennsylvania/Delaware Council on some of which was published in the April will once again co-sponsor its Family Relations now has a website: 2002 issue of Family Relations. (Alan was Oannual conference with Penn www.ship.edu/~pdcfr. Members can also featured on the local ABC News that State’s Building Strong Families organi- find a variety of PA/DE information evening in a news segment on covenant zation. The theme of this year’s confer- such as conference updates, past confer- marriage.) Following Alan’s presentation, ence is Bridging Generations: The Modern ence information (there is a slide show a reaction panel made up of a family Family in Motion. Dr. Richard Wiscott, from last year’s P/DCFR conference), scholar, a family law professor, and a Director of Gerontology at Shippensburg and contact information for the P/ family therapist discussed the implications University of Pennsylvania will present DCFR Board of Directors. Eventually, of covenant marriage. the morning keynote address. Through- our newsletter will be presented online. Among the many benefits of attending the out the day, concurrent sessions will We would like to include a page for conference was the opportunity to pur- focus on topics relating to intergenera- undergraduate and/or graduate stu- chase new books at bargain prices. A silent tional family relationships. dents. If you are a student who would auction was held for approximately30 new This year’s conference will be held at the like to add to our P/DCFR website books donated by Dr. Lynn Blinn-Pike, Holiday Inn in Grantville, PA (just a few please contact Cynthia Drenovsky Book and Material Review Editor for Fam- miles north of Harrisburg). In the past, ([email protected]). ily Relations. The proceeds (just under this one-day conference was held on a Plans are in the works to add Maryland $300) helped to defray conference expenses. college campus. The conference plan- to the P/DCFR! Adding the resources Overall, exit evaluations suggest that the ning committee hopes that offering the and energy from our Maryland mem- conference was a tremendous success! 2002 conference at a hotel will be more bers is sure to produce a successful The quality of the presentations was convenient for those who are traveling regional council. Please check our exceptional and the “extras” (e.g., career from longer distances. As usual, stu- website for updates on this merger. We fair, silent auction, breakfast and lunch) dents, young professionals, practitioners, welcome your comments and ideas on were thoroughly enjoyed by most. teachers, and researchers are welcome to the future of this endeavor. attend. For more information on confer- Jason D. Hans, CFLE ence and hotel registration, contact Marg Cynthia Drenovsky President, Missouri Council Malehorn ([email protected]) or President, Pennsylvania/Delaware Council E-Mail: [email protected] Cynthia Drenovsky ([email protected]). E-mail: [email protected]

NCFR Report September 2002 19 CALENDAR

September 20-21, 2002 November 19-24, 2002 Families, American Association of Christian Counselors NCFR 64th Annual Conference, Families Over the Life Course: Superconference, Chicago, IL. For more information, visit Bridging Research and Practice, Hyatt Regency Hotel, Houston, September 23-28, 2002 TX. For more information, contact NCFR: 888-781-9331, or visit the NCFR website at: www.ncfr.org Family Violence: Working Together to End Abuse, Family February 28-March 1, 2003 Violence & Sexual Assault Institute’s 7th International Confer- ence at the Town & Country Hotel & Convention Center in From 9 to 5 to 24/7: How Workplace Changes Impact Families, San Diego, CA. Visit www.fvsai.org for further information. Work and Communities, conference sponsored by the Business October 9, 2002 and Professional Women’s Foundation and the Community, Families & Work Program of Brandeis University’s Women’s Bridging Generations: The Modern Family in Motion, Studies Research Center; Orlando, FL. Visit the Community, Pennsylvania/Delaware Council on Family Relations’ Annual Families & Work Program website for the call for papers and Conference at the Holiday Inn, Grantville, PA. For more more information: www.brandeis.edu/centers/wsrd/CFWP/ information, e-mail Marg Malehorn ([email protected]) or April 13-16, 2003 Cynthia Drenovsky ([email protected]). October 25, 2002 Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI) Annual International Conference & Exhibition, Hyatt Regency The Effects of Family Violence on Children: Decreasing the Hotel, Phoenix, AZ. Visit the ACEI website for more informa- Impact, Family Guidance Training Institute, Inc. conference at tion: www.acei.org the Chattanooga Choo Choo Holiday Inn in Chattanooga, TN. April 24-27, 2003 For more information, call Family Guidance Training Institute, Inc.: (931) 431-7580. The Society for Research in Child Development (SRCD) Biennial Meeting, Tampa, FL. For more information, visit the SRCD website: www.srcd.org

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IN THIS ISSUE: Family Focus on… Welfare Reform