Abstract : Noting that although families have always been characterized by change, there is strong evidence that they are changing faster today than ever before. This book focuses on the changing roles of mothers, fathers, and children, emphasizing how fathers and mothers meet parental responsibilities and what children have a right to expect from their parents. The research discussed covers multicultural perspectives, including analysis of statistics from many countries. The chapters in the report are: (1) "Families in Transition" (Cynthia B. Lloyd and Niev Duffy), presenting demographic analysis of how families are changing, covering later marriage and childbirth, smaller families, increasing dependency burden on working-age parents, and female-headed households; (2) "The Economics of Motherhood" (Judith Bruce), discussing the prevalence of mother-supported families; (3) "Fathers as Parenting Partners" (Patrice L. Engle and Ann Leonard), giving a definition for fatherhood and focusing on factors affecting, and the benefits of, father-child relationships; (4) "Familial Risk Factors for Children" (Cynthia B. Lloyd and Niev Duffy), discussing birth circumstances, primary family relationships, and living arrangements; and (5) "Family Policy: Supporting the Parent-Child Link" (Judith Bruce), detailing practical policies and programs. Contains 25 tables; each chapter contains references. (BGC)
Notes : Reprinted with the permission of population council
Web site : http://popcouncil.org/gfd/fif.html