Contemporary Families: Sociological View

In this major new introduction to family studies and the sociology of the family, Richard J Gelles shows the links between the institutional constraints shaping family structure and processes and the family environment itself.

A sensitivity to family diversity across history, gender, nationality, culture and age, as well as a strong focus on the theoretical and research bases, are important features of the book. There are also extensive discussions of contemporary topics such as: family violence; later life families; the variety of family structures and practices in different cultures and nationalities; the work/family nexus; and family stress.

An instructor′s manual by Tricia Dyk is available to those who adopt the book.