Star,

Great point to be made about couples versus single parenting! There are a lot of traditional nuclear family proponents who point to studies suggesting that a mommy and a daddy are what makes a stable family. In reality, the literature would show you that the benefits you mentioned: someone to share the burdens with, additional income, and the "normalcy" of that unit within this culture are what truly provide the stability.

And I believe you're right... emphasis on the social acceptability of the traditional nuclear family needs to fade. Not only is it not inclusive, it is fast becoming inaccurate in the US. With divorce rates climbing each year, there is a real sense that the traditional nuclear family is on the decline. I think that if "family values" are what we spout and spew here in the US, then we should be willing to endorse and strengthen the happiness and well-being of ALL types of families... not just one ;)

Ok, rant over for now :drop:

~Nick :cosmic: