This book provides a research-based introduction to the study of marriage and family along with practical advice that readers can put to use in their own lives. It offeris timely, practical, and high-interest information about marriages, families, and intimate relationships, in an engaging format that is easy-to-use and learn from. Features such as “Popular Culture and the Media,” “Practical Action,” and “Numbers that Matter” help grab and keep readers attention.

The new edition has been updated to include coverage of important issues, topics, and research from the past few years. Examples of new topics covered include: state abortion law updates, abstinence education controversy, adultolescents, children and the effects of TV watching, foster children, LGBT, living apart together (LAT) couples, post-adoption blues, safe-haven laws pro and con, Web 2.0, and more. (Author abstract modified)