Description: Contemporary trends such as increased one-parent families, high divorce rates, second marriages and homosexual partnerships have all contributed to variations in the traditional family structure. But to what degree has the function of the family changed and how have these changes affected family roles in cultures throughout the world? This book attempts to answer these questions through a psychological study of families in thirty nations, carefully selected to present a diverse cultural mix. The study utilises both cross-cultural and indigenous perspectives to analyse variables including family networks, family roles, emotional bonds, personality traits, self-construal, and 'family portraits' in which the authors address common core themes of the family as they apply to their native countries. From the introductory history of the study of the family to the concluding indigenous psychological analysis of the family, this book is a source for students and researchers in psychology, sociology and anthropology.
Brief description: James Georgas is Professor Emeritus of Psychology at the University of Athens.
Review Quotes: "Led by an editorial team of five exceptionally experienced cross-cultural psychologists, this important book will be immensely beneficial to many social and behavioral scientists. It contributes to an understanding of the nature, meaning and function of the human family unit in varied and even emerging forms across the globe. The volume is wonderfully enhanced by contributions from accomplished psychologists in carefully selected countries. The editors have worked together on a number of research and writing projects, some of them covering more than three decades, which only adds to the credibility of this exciting contribution to the literature."
--Walter J. Lonner, Professor Emeritus of Psychology, Western Washington University