This revised and updated, 21st century edition of a widely used textbook discusses the sociology of the family, historical perspective, alternative lifestyles, minority families, mate selection, premarital sex, sexuality, and singleness. It also addresses marital adjustment, communication, conflict resolution, childbearing, parenting, gender roles, aging, finances, and violence. Marriage and the Family uses case studies, discussion questions, suggested reading, glossary, tables, and illustrations to help the reader understand the importance of strong family units in crucial times.