Book

Polygamous families in contemporary society

Cambridge University PressCambridge • Published In 1996 • Pages:

By: Altman, Irwin, Ginat, J..

Abstract
This is an in-depth study of a rural and urban community from the Allred fundamentalist polygynous group. The authors conducted face-to-face interviews with more than a hundred individuals from twenty-six plural families over a period of five years, with some follow up two years later. They also carried out participant observation of family life and celebrations. Polygynous life is examined through the lens of transactional analysis, with a particular interest in how dyadic and communal relationships in plural families are negotiated and balanced. The various subjects discussed include courtship, weddings, honeymoons, living arrangements, rotation schedules between husband and wives, communal celebrations, budgeting, and emotional life. For each major topic there is reflection on historical evidence for Mormon pioneer family life, and on family behaviors in other polygynous societies around the world.
Subjects
Adjustment processes
Social personality
Building interiors and arrangement
Cooperative organization
Gender status
Marriage
Polygamy
Theological systems
Religious denominations
culture
Mormons
HRAF PubDate
2018
Region
North America
Sub Region
Southwest and Basin
Document Type
Book
Evaluation
Creator Type
Ethnologist
Document Rating
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
Ian Skoggard; 2012
Field Date
1987-1994
Coverage Date
1987-1994
Coverage Place
"Redrock" and "Metropolitan City," western United States
Notes
Irwin Altman, Joseph Ginat
Includes bibliographical references (p. [495]-503) and index
LCCN
95046687
LCSH
Polygamy--United States--History
Mormon Church--United States--History
Mormon families--United States--History