Family Life Cycle
Beginning Stage
A couple marries and decides if they want children.
Nuclear Family
Two parents and their biological child or children that all live together.
Step 1
Identify the problem
1
Relationship built on and directed by shared values
Childbearing Stage
A couple that starts having children.
Single Parent Family
One parent taking care of his or her child or children.
Step 2
Come up with solutions for the problem
2
Acceptance of family members’ differences
Parenting Stage
A couple that focuses on their kids lives.
Extended Family
A household that includes the parent or parents and other relatives.
Step 3
Write good and bad points for the solutions
3
Expectation that family values and structure will change
Launching Stage
A couples children that start leaving home.
Step Families and Blended Families
When one or both adults in a relationship have children from previous relationships living in a home.
Step 4
Pick the best possible solution
4
Sharing of responsibilities
Mid-years Stage
The couple has an empty nest after their children have left home.
Families with Adopted Children
When a child of one pair of parents legally becomes the child of another family.
Step 5 and 6
5 - After choosing the solution, plan when to use it
6 - Figure out if the solution worked how you wanted it too
5
Honesty and dependability