Introduction to Family Processes

Book excerpt: Written for undergraduate level courses on family processes, family studies, introduction to the family, family communication, and dynamics of the family, this thoroughly class-tested new edition examines what is known about what goes on "behind closed doors" in families. Introduction to Family Processes, 4/e introduces the reader to the family processes approach--strategies and daily sequences of behavior used by family members to achieve goals. The family processes approach focuses on how families work, think, and interact; the Inner Family; and the dynamics among its members. Features of this Fourth Edition include: *Textbook and Student Workbook in one volume! Introduction to Family Processes, Fourth Edition is filled with writing activities and designed with enough space to complete the activities directly on the page. *Chapter Activities help reinforce concepts learned before moving on to the next concept. These activities are short essay responses to reinforce writing practice and critical thinking skills. *Journal Activities strengthen the students' connection to the material covered as they reflect, record, and revisit their own thoughts and opinions on guided journal exercises. *Spotlight on Research. These boxed features highlight valuable research studies. Once research is presented, students are then asked to reflect and respond. *Principle Boxes highlight specific principles relevant to chapter material and can be used as a study reference or to launch class activities/discussions. *Real families presented in case studies make the data and research come to life. *Each chapter opens with Chapter Outlines and concludes with Chapter Summary, Study Questions, and a Key Terms List.