these relationships may take manyforms but typically involves individuals who view themselves as aunit with a long-term commitment to continue their relationship.Traditionally, at least in western societies, families are definedin terms of two parents living together with responsibility forrearing their children. However, these so-called nuclear familiesare becoming a rarer phenomenon. Single-parent families, childlesscouples, lesbian or gay male couples are also all represented inthe broad mix of relations referred to as families. Each of thechapters in this book deals with a primary relationship issue.These include:* issues of early marriage* how young relationships become enduring relationships* parent and child relations* conflict between partners* the interface between work and family life* marital quality and maintenance* divorce and its impact on the family* aging and older familiesThis volume provides a useful reference for professionals whoseresearch and/or clinical practice focuses on family relationshipissues. This book is also intended for advanced students in theareas of sociology, close relationships and family sciences.Families as Relationships is one of a series of paperbacksdedicated to the study and application of processes by whichindividuals relate to each other in social and family settings.Each book provides an expanded and up-to-date version of a sectionin the original Handbook of Personal Relationships (second edition)edited by Steve Duck.

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