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Time, Energy, and Money: Managing Family Resources

problems or family problems (U.S.
Department of Health and Human Services,
n.d.; Rotondo, Carlson, & Kincaid, 2003).
Work stress is related to a variety of
occupational variables:

Any of these variables can lead to a
serious loss of personal energy and
motivation for work and leisure (Feagin,
Early, & McKinney, 2001). Work stress and
financial stress take a heavy toll on
families. Sidebar 10.2 demonstrates an
example of how financial stress can lead to
the breakup of a family.

Families and Money

A key area of conflict in families is

related to money. Ninety-five percent of

couples argue about money-related topics.

Fifty-five percent of people report they

always or sometimes worry about money

(Statistics, 2008). Often the biggest problem

is not a lack of money, but how a family

spends it. Sidebar 10.2 looks at the tragic

story of one couples divorce because of how

money was used.

The current state of the family

economy is bleak. If we were to point to

one primary cause of this situation, it

would be the debt load most Americans

carry. See Sidebar 10.3. Sadly, Americans

have been conditioned to believe debt is a

normal part of life. Sidebar 10.4 illustrates

the mistake a newlywed couple made in

how they spent their money.

Arguments about money occur with 95% of couples

on a regular basis and 55% report they always or

sometimes worry about money.

Image from BigstockPhoto.com / jas0420

• Excessive workload demands: long
  hours, too many responsibilities,
  hectic pace, mundane tasks, or a lack
  of control


• Working conditions: infrequent rest
  breaks, inadequate light or
  ventilation, or dangerous conditions


• Management styles: conflicting
  expectations, poor communication,
  or lack of support from peers and
  supervisors


• Career concerns: job insecurity, lack
  of advancement potential, or rapid
  change for which employees are
  unprepared


• Hostile environment: mistreatment
  or workplace discrimination