Using Social Science Research in Family Law Analysis and Formation: Problems and Prospects

57 Pages Posted: 13 Jul 2011

See all articles by Sarah H. Ramsey

Sarah H. Ramsey

Syracuse University - College of Law

Date Written: 1994

Abstract

Social science research can make a valuable contribution to family law analysis and formation. It can help define problems, identify possible solutions, and challenge underlying normative assumptions. Although the ultimate choice of a policy is a normative decision, research can inform and improve the quality of the policy debate and public discourse that leads to law reform. There has, however, been substantial criticism of the use of research in family law directed at both researchers and users of the research. This article explores both the limits and potential of law and social science research interaction. It reviews four major methodological problems related to family law research, including a detailed assessment of the problem of bias in the research process. It deals with the use of research for policy analysis and formation and explains the need for multiple studies and the normative nature of policymaking. The article concludes that although developing criteria for the use of family social science research in law formation is a formidable undertaking, concrete steps can be taken to enhance the quality of the relationship between family social science and family law analysis and formation.

Keywords: family law, social science, research bias, family law research

Suggested Citation

Ramsey, Sarah H., Using Social Science Research in Family Law Analysis and Formation: Problems and Prospects (1994). Southern California Interdisciplinary Law Journal, Vol. 3, No. 2, 1994, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1884236

Sarah H. Ramsey (Contact Author)

Syracuse University - College of Law ( email )

Syracuse, NY 13244-1030
United States
410-226-5345 (Phone)

Do you have negative results from your research you’d like to share?

Paper statistics

Downloads
63
Abstract Views
502
Rank
628,038
PlumX Metrics