Marriage & family case study

The dilemma that Leonora and Joshua are facing is common especially to first time parents. The appearance of a new member in the family is likely to change how they relate and hence will require sometime to adjust. Leonora is feeling compelled to go own with her previous lifestyle due to economic constraints that he is facing. On the other hand, Joshua’s dilemma is also due to similar economic constraints (Lamanna, 2008). What the couple need to agree on is how to move on with their life considering the economic challenges they are facing. Their case is all about their financial status rather than the safety of the child. To help them sought out the issue, they need to agree on decisions that will not only be fare to them but also to the baby, they have.
They will hence need to calculate on the much it will cost them for daycare each month and what Leonora will earn every month. Since they have no issues on the safety of the child whether in day care or at home, cost should be a defining factor of the decision they make (Kellett, 2001). If they realize that it will be cheaper to take the child to a day care as the wife works, then that will be better (Fisher, 2004). However, if the cost of taking the baby to day care will be higher that what Leonora earns each month, then it will be economical for Leonora to stay home and take care of the baby. Since they are all concerned about their income and the much the baby will cost them, it will be easier to reach a consensus by considering such crucial issues of cost.

References

Fisher, E. (2004). The art of managing everyday conflict: understanding emotions and power struggles. New York: Greenwood Publishing Group.
Kellett, P. (2001). Managing Conflict in a Negotiated World: A Narrative Approach to Achieving Productive Dialogue and Change. London: SAGE.
Lamanna, M. (2008). Marriages and Families. London: Cengage Learning