Daughters-in-law and stress in two-generation farm families

The proposition that high levels of stress in daughters-in-law in two-generation farm families are correlated with the daughters-in-law's lack of integration into the extended family and family business systems was tested. Quality of the relationship with in-laws, a measure of integration into the extended family system, was significantly negatively correlated with stress. Perceived lack of decision-making responsibility, a measure of integration into the family business system, was also correlated with high stress levels. Implications for educators, business people, and family practitioners, as well as suggestions for future research, are discussed.