Case study

Adam and Tina married within 3 months of meeting each other. Megan was born a year later. Soon afterwards it was clear that her development was not typical, although all the tests were inconclusive. Her complex needs means that they have both had to work hard to meet her health and education requirements. This, alongside constant money worries, has caused a lot of strain in the marriage. They first separated, for a brief period, when Sam was 7 and again about a year ago.

Through their periods of separation they still maintained their joint commitment to care for Megan to the best of their ability. Adam moved back in recently. Prior to the separation they argued a lot and this really upset Sam which is why Adam and Tina thought they may be better apart. One of the things they constantly rowed about was Sam. Since he was quite small he has said that he was "really a girl". They had different ways of dealing with this. Tina thought it was a phase which would pass, but Adam actively discouraged any discussion and tried to make sure that all toys and activities were geared towards boys. Sam has never changed his mind and Tina no longer thinks this is just a phase.