Abstract

In recent decades, there has been increased attention paid to the phenomenon of forced marriage. However, much of this work positions forced marriage as a problem of “backwards” culture or religion. This scoping review synthesizes and critiques research on forced marriage, showing that extant research has focused on individual circumstances of vulnerability, forced entrance to marriage, and cisgendered heterosexual women. These narrow framings eclipse the structural drivers, forces that prevent exit, and experiences of heterosexual men, queer individuals, and those with disabilities. Overall, the reviewed literature demonstrates the opportunity of applying new methodological (e.g., social autopsy), conceptual (e.g., post-carceral approaches), and descriptive (e.g., gender and sexual minority people) approaches to this social problem. We urge family scientists to pay more attention to forced marriage, as they are uniquely positioned to parse out distinctions in the range of experiences that constitute forced marriage and to consider strategies to support marital self-determination.

Abstract

Sexual and gender minority (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgnder: LGBT) adults experience heightened social discrimination and minority stress throughout their lives because of their minority identities. LGBT older adults are particularly vulnerable to the impact of minority stress as they are more likely to live alone and to be estranged from their families of origin. To cope, many LGBT older adults have developed social networks that include chosen families and non-biological relatives who care for one another as if they are family. The chosen family resilience strategy renegotiates what it means to do family and is worthy of theoretical examination. We apply the convoy model of social relations as an interdisciplinary framework for examining LGBT older adults' social networks and chosen families. We discuss points of convergence between the model and what is known about LGBT social networks, and we extend the model to account for chosen families and online social connections.

Abstract

The aim of this article is to provide a theoretical application of transformative learning theory and politicized collective identity framework to examine the process cisgender parents and caregivers of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) children undergo to become advocates for TGD justice. With an intensifying anti-TGD political climate and anti-TGD rhetoric, this novel approach to understanding identity development through the lens of these two theories provides a timely and relevant framework for future research to explore motivators for participation in civic engagement for TGD justice among parents and caregivers.

Journal of Family Theory &Review, EarlyView.

Abstract

With the Black immigrant population in the United States rapidly increasing, there is a pressing need to understand their unique challenges. We examine the mental health issues of Black immigrant families in the US through the lens of intersectionality. We explore how overlapping identities, race, immigration status, and socioeconomic conditions impact mental health outcomes. Despite their growing numbers, Black immigrants remain underrepresented in mental health research, facing barriers such as language, cultural stigma, and limited access to services. Specific findings reveal how structural racism and migration stress compound to worsen mental health outcomes. This review highlights the importance of targeted, culturally sensitive interventions and comprehensive healthcare practices by analyzing these factors. We advocate for an intersectional approach to address systemic barriers and improve mental health outcomes for Black immigrant families, emphasizing the urgent need for expanded research to promote social justice and equity.

Abstract

The notion of equality attracts both proponents and critics of nonmonogamy. Inequality is a widely discussed objection to nonmonogamy. Simultaneously, equality is highlighted as a core value in ethical nonmonogamy. The notions of equality and inequality in these debates have not been clearly conceptualized. In order to propose a conception of egalitarian nonmonogamy, it is important to first understand possible inequalities within it. This paper establishes a clearer and in-depth understanding of inequalities in nonmonogamy by categorizing inequalities in traditional polygamy into different kinds. I argue that these inequalities are generally unjust. Although these inequalities are common in traditional polygamy, the objection that polygamy—as a type of marriage—is inherently unequal and unjust is not a convincing argument. By contrast, not all kinds of equality—such as equal love or equal number of partners—are morally significant. I conclude this paper by providing some groundwork for future research on egalitarian nonmonogamy.