Introduction to Family Processes: Diverse Families, Common Ties

by Denise Ann Bodman, Bethany Bustamante Van Vleet, Randal D. Day

Introduction to Family Diverse Families, Common Ties serves to provide an explanation of the complex workings of inner family life. The text primarily focuses on family processes and dynamics (the "inside" of families) as opposed to sociological trends, political topics, or the individual psychological approach. The text further presents the research underlying these processes and effectively presents ways to increase the positive aspects of family life. This edition has been updated to include current research and contemporary topics. The text has been divided into four Foundations, Building and Establishing Families, Maintaining Families, and Change/Turbulence/Gains/Losses. While the research methods chapter still provides an introductory examination of family science research, it now includes an expanded discussion on research design, methods, and advances in the area. A new chapter, titled "Forgiveness, Kindness, Hope, and Gratitude" has been incorporated to amplify positive family processes and highlight emerging research. This edition provides added emphasis on diverse families (e.g., race/ethnicity, family structure, LGBTQIA, ability, culture, and family formation), and each chapter includes a new "Discussions in Diversity" section related to that chapter. The authors have consciously included an epilogue as a way of reflecting on what they have learned, along with what they hope to learn in the future. Aimed at courses related to family studies and family dynamics, this text provides a comprehensive review of family processes. Whether it is used for undergraduate or graduate classes, professional growth, or personal enrichment, the text assists readers in enhancing the positive aspects of family life, avoiding undesirable aspects, and more effectively managing the challenges and obstacles families face that cannot be avoided. Thus, the text holds an appeal for people who live (or will live) in families, as well as those who want to work with families.

322 pages, Hardcover

Published May 3, 2022

Reviews

[Jennifer Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm terribly biased (Randal Day is my father) but this edition of the text is fantastic and a wonderful way to honor his memory. I am transported back to a lecture hall at WSU in 1991 where I had the honor of taking my dad's Introduction to Family Process course. This foundational information changed the trajectory of my life and I use this information every day--still. As an LMFT, I find myself referring to these essential principles with my clients to help them navigate life's challenges--the same way my dad helped me. I am blessed.