ABSTRACT
The study presented in this chapter examines the relationship between family structure, family functioning, and the development of self-esteem in adolescents. Marital transitions and reorganizations in the family have been found to have marked effects on family functioning and various aspects of child development including that of self-esteem (Ahrons, 1980; Ganong & Coleman, 1984, 1986, 1987; Hetherington, Cox, & Cox, 1978, 1982; Wallerstein & Kelly, 1980; Weiss, 1979). Moreover, if as has been proposed by many theorists, adolescence is a salient period in identity formation, the effects of variations in family structure and family processes on self-concept and self-esteem may be particularly apparent at that time.
