LIVING IN FAMILIES Understanding Families Considerations of Parenthood

Understanding Families Explain the importance of the family Identify various types of families Identify stages in the family life cycle Explain how social trends affect the family. Explain ways to strengthen the family.

The importance of family –Ways the family benefits its members (sense of belonging, love, and care) A group of two or more people who care about each other and are committed to each other. Families provide a sense of belonging, it’s a child’s first connection to the world, to share love (be loved and give love), to care and be cared for, to help and help others.

Types of families Nuclear, adopted, foster, extended, single- parent, blended

Family Life Cycle Beginning Childbearing Child-rearing Launching Empty-nest Retirement

Trends Affecting Family Systems Changing family roles Mobile society Awareness of family values Couples are marrying later Blended families

Healthy Families Provide –Gives protection, economic and emotional support, a sense of identity and acceptance, and a chance for personal development

How to Strengthened Families Commitment Time together Communication Appreciation Shared beliefs Coping skills

CONSIDERATIONS OF PARENTHOOD Discuss the changes that parenthood brings List questions couples should consider before deciding on parenthood

Parenthood brings changes New responsibilities Changes in lifestyles Emotional adjustments –Anxiety, fear of not being a good parent, frustration at losing personal freedom, loneliness, isolation, worry over financial matters, jealousy of the baby, depression. Changes in relationships Rewards - joy, feelings of pride, happiness, love

Decisions about parenthood Emotional maturity Desire for parenthood Health considerations Management skills Financial considerations