Using personal digital assistants, 91 parents employed in non-professional occupations were surveyed for 14 consecutive days about their job characteristics and work-family experiences. We found significant daily variation in work-to-family conflict (WFC) and work-to-family facilitation (WFF) that was predictable from daily job characteristics. Higher levels of WFC were associated with greater job demands and control at work. Contrary to the demands-control model (Karasek, 1979), these two job characteristics interacted such that the relationship between demands and WFC was stronger when control was high. We also found that demands were negatively related and control and skill level positively related to WFF. The results suggest ways in which jobs may be redesigned to enhance individuals' work-family experiences.

Using data collected over 14 consecutive days, we examined the impact of work hours and job demands on parent‐child interactions for mothers and fathers in nonprofessional couples. Wives and husbands evaluated their interactions with their children similarly, such that changes in a spouse’s evaluation of parent‐child interactions typically matched those reported by the other spouse. Greater daily work hours were related to less time spent on child care and less time spent on leisure with children, but higher positive interactions with children were reported. Greater wife perceived job demands were associated with husbands having more positive interactions with children. The findings add to our limited understanding of daily experiences of work‐family issues for parents within nonprofessional, dual‐earner households.

This paper addresses a conundrum that merits scholarly attention-why social scientists' ability to generate high quality research has outpaced their ability to disseminate research into the policymaking process. The paper describes Family Impact Seminars, a series of seminars, briefing reports, and follow-up activities that provide up-to-date, solution-oriented information to state policymakers. In support of the proposed ''three-communities'' theory, the utilization of research in policymaking appears to depend upon several pragmatic practices and procedures, ten which are detailed in the paper.

More than 90% of Americans will marry, and the majority will drink alcohol in the course of celebrating and cementing their nuptial bond. Drinking, at least on occasion, is currently the norm in our society. Americans are not alone: Alcohol is currently used in most societies in the world, and its use dates as far back in time as recorded history. In many societies, alcohol has played a functional if not beneficial role in medicine, food preservation, religious ceremonies, and celebrations. The medicinal and celebratory properties of alcohol, however, represent only part of the story of this popular substance. Alcohol use also has brought significant adverse effects to individuals, families, and communities throughout the world. In the United States, it is estimated that the adverse effects from alcohol abuse and dependence cost $148 billion annually in lost productivity, treatment, medical consequences, accidents, and crime (Harwood, Fountain, & . Livermore, 1998).

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