Criticizes systems theory for providing an inappropriate model of the family. Proposes that the family should be conceived of as a matrix of interlocking experiences. (RJC)

Reviews a number of inventories designed to measure dimensions of family systems theory and then provides a discussion of family systems assessment. Includes discussions of two couple's inventories, eight nuclear family inventories, and two family of origin inventories. Concludes that counselor educators must have understanding of marriage and…

Deaf parent/hearing child pairs (n=19) completed the Parental Strengths and Needs Inventory and were interviewed about their relationships. Scores were above average, and parents expressed high interest in childrearing information. Children with strong sign language skills expressed general willingness to interpret for their parents, and reported…

Highlights the findings from the first systematic national examination of the effects of the Indian Child Welfare Act (P. L. 95-608). Examines the prevalence of Native American children in substitute care and the effects of this Act and others on Indian children and families. (RJC)

Reports on a computer-based research model that was designed to test family process variables. Integration with an existing family decision-making process model is described, the microcomputer/mainframe system is explained, and system reliability and validity are discussed in relation to traditional process variable research methodologies. (29…

Introduces special journal issue published to inform American readers of recent developments in Europe and to help readers address contemporary family change. Discusses similarities of trends in North America and Western Europe and points out differences among countries. Examines various statistical indicators and trends in birth rates, marriages,…

Used data from National Survey of Black Americans to study how Black adult males assess their performance as family providers. Multivariate analysis of responses from 771 Black males showed age and personal income significantly related to assessment: as Black men aged and as their incomes increased, they were more likely to perceive themselves as…

Consists of six articles on home economics education, with some emphasis on Hawaiian education. Topics include (1) home economics history; (2) the secondary curriculum; (3) teaching practical reasoning; (4) the basics in Hawaiian home economics; (5) teaching family living and human relations; and (6) changes in home economics. (CH)

Presents a family systems model for understanding the impact of chronic illness on family functioning and describes family-focused interventions related to reducing the stress involved during the adjustment process. (Author)

Argues that family stories encourage students to learn more about their heritage, acquire and refine literacy skills, and develop greater respect for the multicultural differences that make the students unique. Discusses starting with children's literature, collecting stories, sharing aloud, preserving the stories through writing, and celebrating…

Families in individual-orientated Western society spend little time together and tend to focus on accomplishments rather than belonging. Proposes that human development is not an individual but a group process and that a nest of ongoing support during childhood encourages a sense of belonging. This support should include at least 10 minutes of…

Analyzes children's own descriptions and interpretations of what family life is like or could be like. The research was designed to determine the children's perspective on childhood and parenthood. The article focuses on four girls and discusses their narratives using concepts from literary theory. The woman in control of family life is the…

Responses from 31 of 40 home economics teacher education programs indicated that most require courses in human development and family resource management; fewer than 50% specify family life content. Family life topics taught include life management, marriage, early pregnancy, AIDS, and work and family. (SK)

Examines differences in marital role attitudes and expected behavior among unmarried college students in mainland China (n=288) and Taiwan (n=339) by comparing survey responses on four dimensions of marital role attitudes and six areas of traditional husband and wife role behaviors. Hypotheses were generally supported with some exceptions.…

Outlines what stepfamilies need from therapy and describes three important lessons other types of families can learn from remarriage families: dealing productively with losses and changes, accepting and appreciating differences, and enhancing relationships by increasing dyadic interactions. (Author)