Response from The Neighborhood Shrink to "Statistics Need Context"

Thank you for your interest and response. Criticisms on both of the studies that you refer to are that the sample sizes were so small. Cross-sectional small studies are about anyone can afford in situations like this. However, I also validate many of the conclusions in my practice with the couples that I work with.

Research is not fact. Conclusions are drawn on assumptions. Therefore all research is flawed. It just the way the way it is. Even you refer to anecdotal evidence which contributes to individuals overall belief system-obviously including your own. For example, the idea that all first marriages are practice marriages is not the conclusion of most people getting married for the 1st time.The sum does not always equal the parts, and sometimes relying on small studies is all the evidence there is. But, I appreciate your thought.

I concur with what you are saying about the myth of the nuclear family. However, in most communities in the United States, it is still the cultural norm. Therefore the findings and the paradigm are valid as it applies to most of my readers.

Thank again for your input. I appreciate your concerns and comments.

Chip Weiner, LMHC, CEAP, SAP