articles catalogue

“Cinderella Effect”: Is risk of abuse higher in stepfamilies?

Drawing its name from the popular fairy tale, the “Cinderella effect” describes the tragic phenomenon where children have a higher risk of abuse by non-biological parents (married or unmarried to the biological parent). Though well-documented, the reasons for the trend are hotly debated. Nevertheless, understanding the unique and specific challenges and complexities faced by stepfamilies can guide us in preventing and addressing child abuse.

Becoming Mum: A Cultivate Commune (May) update

Jennifer Heng Safe Space
Becoming a mother can be a very challenging experience for some. At our Commune on 10 May, Jennifer Heng shared her story about how she came to start Safe Place, an organisation helps unsupported pregnant women and their families.

Fatherhood, Friendship, and Finding Community  

C.S. Lewis once wrote that friendship is born when one person says to another, “What? You too? I thought I was the only one.” This Father's Day, hear the story of The Ordinary Dad, a group formed when some stay-at-home dads came together and found community.

Double-edged Sword? Do grandparents help build strong families? 

Building Strong Families Symposium 2025 Singapore
A study by Catholic Family Life found that strong families are undergirded by strong marriages. Four factors are key: family commitment, conflict resolution, marital satisfaction and family spirituality. But grandparents and intergenerational relationships could be a "double-edged sword" if values and attitudes are not aligned.

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Building Strong Families Symposium 2025 Singapore

Double-edged Sword? Do grandparents help build strong families? 

A study by Catholic Family Life found that strong families are undergirded by strong marriages. Four factors are key: family commitment, conflict resolution, marital satisfaction and family spirituality. But grandparents and intergenerational relationships could be a "double-edged sword" if values and attitudes are not aligned.
Divorce Children Singapore

Divorcing? Please Still Try to Cooperate for the Sake of Your Child 

In post-divorce custody battles, it is remarkable how Singapore law strives to preserve the relationship of children with both parents despite the breakdown of the marriage. Joint custody is the norm, and courts have often encouraged divorcing couples to set aside their hostility for the sake of their children.
Marriage Trends Singapore

Marriage – Yay or Nay?

Let me start with a confession. When I was approached to write a commentary about marriage, my first reaction was “No thanks!”

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Articles here are for perspective and may not represent our views