Introduction to Family Processes: Diverse Families, Common Ties

Now in its seventh edition, and fully revised with a complete reimagining of voice, structure, and purpose, Introduction to Family Processes explores the complex workings of inner family life. Focusing on family processes and dynamics, rather than sociological trends, political topics, or the individual psychological approach, the text presents the research underlying core family processes and offers practical strategies to enhance family well-being and strengthen positive relationships.

Key features of this edition include:

• A new chapter focused on parenting and intergenerational relationships, exploring how family roles evolve and shift over time.
• A contemporary focus, fully reflecting the values of inclusivity and diversity in the study of families, and including topics that speak directly to the lives of today’s students, including digital life, family formation, identity, and resilience.
• A wealth of pedagogical features throughout, including Points to Ponder and TL;DR summary boxes, a Family Toolbox of activities, study questions, and suggested readings.

Tailored for students across undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional programs related to family studies, this book provides essential insights into the complex dynamics that shape how families function and thrive.

Denise Ann Bodman, PhD, has taught family and human development courses at Arizona State University’s T. Denny Sanford School of Social and Family Dynamics for over 30 years, garnering numerous teaching and service awards. Her writings (both popular and scientific) and research have focused on cross-cultural parenting and family relationships.

Bethany Bustamante Van Vleet, PhD, is a Teaching Professor and Director of Graduate Studies at Arizona State University in the T. Denny Sanford School of Social and Family Dynamics. Her passion lies in engaging students while teaching them about family and human development, measurement, and statistics. With a husband and six kids, Introduction to Family Processes is more than just a textbook to Bethany.

Before his passing, Randal D. Day, PhD, was a popular teacher, mentor, researcher, and scholar. He published more than 100 research articles, books, and government documents focusing on family processes, men in families, and social science research.