Foundational Concepts for Understanding Families in Society

The purpose of this open access textbook will be to explore family issues from diverse perspectives. Current social, cultural, and political forces will be emphasized in creating a knowledge foundation for the study of families from varied academic disciplines, including history, sociology, psychology, education and social work. University Studies (UNST) goals focus on increasing skills in diversity, ethics and social responsibility, critical thinking, and communication. This textbook will provide the opportunities to explore the diversity of human experience in the context of the family and community and promote social responsibility through addressing contemporary issues and promoting resilience in families and communities. Articles will be written by an interdisciplinary community of experts (social workers, academics, educators, activists) who study and/or work with families, the essays in this book will draw on the latest in social work research, feminist and queer theory, social science research and clinical expertise.