Final answer:
The increase in the number of divided families can be attributed to several factors, such as changing family structure, challenges to marital stability, and the changing societal makeup. These factors include the growth of single-parent families, two-career high-earner couples, divorces, violence and abuse within the home, and the rise of unmarried couples and extended households.
Step-by-step explanation:
The increase in the number of divided families can be attributed to several factors. One reason is the changing family structure, with the growth of single-parent families and two-career high-earner couples. Single-parent families, who tend to be at the lower end of the income distribution, contribute to the rise in income inequality, while two-career high-earner couples, who are near the top end of the income distribution, also impact family structure.
Another factor contributing to the increase in divided families is the challenges to marital stability. Divorces, though decreasing in recent years, still have negative effects on family members, especially children. Additionally, violence and abuse within the home can lead to divided families.
The changing societal makeup also plays a role in the increase of divided families. The percent of unmarried couples, same-sex couples, single-parent households, and single-adult households is growing. Further, there is a rise in expanded households, where extended family members live together in the family home.