Guys and Dolls: Remedial Nurturing Skills in Post-Divorce Practice, Feminist Theory, and Family Law Doctrine

This Article addresses two pressing problems in contemporary family law and demonstrates the usefulness of feminist theory in analyzing both The first problem is the practical, specific problem of post-divorce nurturing of children; that is, why post-divorce nurturing is so often difficult for custodial and visiting parents, as well as their children. The second is a more theoretical, pervasive problem of doctrinal reform; that is, the persistence of gendered stereotypes in family law notwithstanding doctrinal reforms intended to eradicate them. The first problem provides a concrete context in which to clarify and analyze the second. It is a particularly apt context because the ways in which children are nurtured can discourage as well as reinforce replication of gender stereotypes.