Key Benefit: This classic resource uses family systems and systemic family development theory as frameworks to explore how parent-child relations change in tandem with developmental changes occurring with children, adults, and the wider family system. The book takes a developmental approach in examining relationships along the lifespan.

 

Key Topics: In three major parts, this book covers the relationship between parent and child in the social context (I), the work of parenting (II), and the unique challenges that contemporary parents and children face (III). Overall, this resource provides: a sharp focus on parenting, with a strong emphasis on the various theoretical and practical models pertaining to parenting; an emphasis on family systems theory and a systemic family development model to describe intergenerational family scenarios and lifespan challenges; a keen focus on the ecological, social, and cultural contexts in which parent-child relations occur; some of the major parenting strategies anchored by focusing on nurture and structure; and important discussions of ethnic diversity and family structures in the United States. With thoroughly revised chapters and a new chapter, readers will explore the following key topics: the ecology of parent-child relations; cultural perspectives; theoretical perspectives on parent-child relations; parenting styles and strategies; the transition to parenthood; pregnancy and childbirth; parenting at all stages of development including infants and toddlers, preschoolers, school-age children, adolescents and young adults; parenting in single-parent family systems;  parenting in blended family systems; adolescent parents; family formation and parenting in same-sex couples; parent-child relations in high-risk families; and best practices in parent-child relations.

 

Market: Written for students of child and family studies; pre-service and practicing professionals working with children of all ages and their families; as well as parents, themselves.