ABSTRACT
In Chapter 4 we focused on some of the problems in controlling for SES in studies examining family structure. Recently, some researchers have made at least some attempt to use predisruption SES measures in determining the effects for divorce (Allison and Furstenberg, 1989; Cherlin, Kiernan, and Chase-Lansdale, 1995). According to this perspective, using predisruption SES measures is the next logical step in finding more accurate effects for divorce. Nevertheless, several questions arise regarding the utility of using this method. First, the most important question is whether using predisruption SES measures truly yield different effects for divorce than postdisruption measures. Second, are predivorce SES measures accessible enough to enable their widespread usage? The primary purpose of this study will be to address the first question, but the second question will also be addressed in the discussion section.
