This best-selling text integrates the latest research and practices in family policy. Featuring examples from around the globe that explain how families support society and how policies support families, the book moves beyond analysis to action with pragmatic processes and procedures for improving the effectiveness of family policies. The new edition features many new references and policies that reflect recent changes in the economy, politics, and family forms and functions, new learning tools, an enhanced global perspective, and 3 new chapters. Intended for courses in family or social policy, the book also appeals to researchers and practitioners interested in this field.