The phrase "alternative family forms" evokes images of family organization
that deviate from the so-called "traditional" model of nuclear structure wi
th husband/breadwinner, wife/homemaker. This paper, however, examines a new
, alternative form of marriage contract that is highly compatible with that
traditional model: "Covenant Marriage," which is currently available in ju
st two of the fifty U.S. stares. We begin by describing features of the cov
enant marriage alternative in Louisiana, and its supporters early, enthusia
stic expectations. We then discuss its very limited adoption, but its much
greater appeal to couples with traditional gender role attitudes. We conclu
de by considering the apparent value of the covenant marriage contract for
those couples who wish to practice and promote gendered family roles and re
sponsibilities.