Murray M. Kappelman
Published: 1980
Total Pages: 360
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Abstract: While the birth rate has been decreasing steadily, the number of infants born to parents over 30 has increased. These parents are likely to have more education than average, both be working, live in a city, and have substantial income. This profile implies that parenting over 30 may merit extra attention. Related topics cover adoption, increased possibility of birth defects, care of the body during pregnancy, and preparing friends and relatives. Facing the necessity to change lifestyle becomes significant for both male and female; it often means the loss of one income, or the need to adjust to a change in focus from self and spouse to a long-term commitment to the third party. As the child grows, new problems surface: lack of peer group for toddlers, bringing up an only child, coping with health problems, and handling an adolescent. Other areas of concern are single parenting, divorce, and integrating with previous families. There are advantages to delayed parenthood; added maturity and experience, better self awareness, economic and marital stability, and choice.