Couple network patterns of newcomers in an Australian city

Data from a study of newcomer families in Canberra, Australia, are used to illustrate patterns of couples' network formation in a new social setting. The discussion focuses on particular couple network patterns which newcomers developed during their first year and on the influence of these patterns on the newcomers' experience of the new social environment. Different network structures were found to affect the newcomers' potential for both individual change and the development of intimate relationships in this situation.