MARITAL CONFLICT AND CHILDREN - RETROSPECT AND PROSPECT

Although a relation between marital functioning and child adjustment is widely accepted among clinicians and researchers, empirical data show that the magnitude of this association is low and varies considerably across studies. Analysis of this circumstance reveals the need for greater specification of the constructs of marital conflict and child adjustment and for relating particular aspects of conflict to specific child outcomes. We therefore offer a reappraisal of the construct of marital conflict and identify several conflict dimensions that appear relevant to understanding its potential impact on children. Finally, several avenues for future research are highlighted that might promote greater integration of clinical practice and research.