American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (AAFCS) Practice Test

In empty nest stage 2, what is the key difference compared to stage 1?

1. The head of household is single

2. The head of household has retired

3. The couple has dependent children

4. The couple is newly married

The correct answer is: The head of household has retired

In empty nest stage 2, the key difference is that the head of household has retired. This stage typically represents a transition into a time of life where parents have completed their child-rearing responsibilities, as their children have moved out, and they are entering a phase where they can focus on their own identities and interests. Retirement brings about significant lifestyle changes and freedoms, allowing couples to explore new opportunities and hobbies, spend quality time together, or even travel. This contrasts with empty nest stage 1, where parents still have active roles in their children's lives, albeit in a different capacity, and may not yet be navigating the changes that retirement entails. The other options do not accurately reflect the essence of stage 2. For instance, if the head of household were single, it would not represent a traditional empty nest scenario focused on a couple. Additionally, couples with dependent children are generally not classified within the empty nest stages, as this term specifically applies to those whose children have become independent. Lastly, a newly married couple would not fit into an empty nest framework, as this stage implies that children have already moved out, marking a period of change and evolution for the couple after their children have reached independence.