Compares the attitudes of family members (N=208) about the nature of a healthy family with a previous study of family therapists' attitudes. Results emphasized the value of family unity to families. Families valued cohesion and communication aspects most highly, while therapists valued a blend of cohesion, adaptability and communication. (JAC)

Compared the interaction of normal families and families with a drug-abusing member in order to describe the differences in their communication patterns. Concluded that addict families generally display more rigid communication patterns than do normal families. (PD)

Considers the question of family policy in terms of "conventional-progressive" interest group perspectives. The conventional perspective is that "family problems" are the result of "breakdown" and can be resolved by reestablishing the status quo ante. Progressive advocates argue that changes in citizens'…

Applies social exchange principles to the difficulties of setting up a stepfamily. Discusses obstacles to role adjustment and maintenance of equity among members. Concludes that if the reconstituting family can establish a basis of trust, the stepfamily can merge as a developmental unit toward expansion and commitment. (Author)

Discusses the role of family life education in the 1980s. The 21 articles deal with curriculum development, the role of the family life educator, changing life-styles and values in family relationships, and the impact of research. (JAC)

A collection of articles examines the changing character of the American population and the importance of planning new recreation and leisure services to meet changing population needs. Included are discussions on demography and population dynamics; the effects of immigration; changing work and life styles; and changes in family structure and…

Preprogram, field experience, and postprogram activities (e.g., community study skill development, communication skill development, orientation assignments, the university environment abroad, the family home-stay, work experiences, independent projects) can be used to enhance the value of cross-cultural experiences. (MSE)

Focuses on the discriminant validity of four types of social support (informational, emotional, tangible, and companionship) and the utility of distinguishing support provision from different referents. Results affirm the importance of distinguishing who provides the social support. Analysis revealed a correlation between family members and types…

Explored influences of mobile telework on family life as reported by teleworkers in a large national corporation. Compared this group to office workers within the same company. Teleworkers reported greater work flexibility. Some described positive family influences, whereas others revealed family problems arising from blurred lines between work…

Examined data on family patterns in Greece and Sweden covering relations between parents and children, and family and child care settings. Found that Greek mothers stressed the general importance of their children's day care setting program more than did Swedish mothers, particularly concerning the socializing and learning aspects of the program.…

Even improved school systems cannot fully prepare children for the challenges ahead, so families must become partners in education. Parents must be lifelong teachers: effective parents must model appropriate behaviors and attitudes, provide guidance, communicate love, teach responsibility, create community, nurture spiritual values, and…

Discusses how Montessori infant and toddler communities provide an occasion for child development education for upper elementary and adolescent students within the school. Uses a question-and-answer format to illustrate how the program addresses the reality of lifestyles other than that of the traditional family. (Author/KB)

Reviews literature on family influence on children's acquisition of literacy. Discusses the ambivalence regarding family literacy theories and the lack of family literacy theoretical frameworks. Identifies types of family involvement and effective literacy strategies for families. Finds that most studies suggest that family literacy contributes to…

Describes changes in the perception and role of fatherhood during the last century. Maintains that official definitions and professional practice rarely confirm fathers' nurturing role, with debilitating results for fathers and families. Contends that legislation, official documents, and procedures should recognize changed expectations of family…

This study assessed attitudes of parents in 48 families with young children having special needs concerning: (1) social support, (2) family satisfaction, and (3) impact of the special child on the family. Significant differences were found between mothers' and fathers' responses on subscales concerned with time demands, coping, and well-being.…