Should We Worry about Family Change?

This book explores the significant changes in family dynamics and their implications for social policy, urging a reevaluation of existing structures. Should We Worry about Family Change? offers insightful analysis.

In Should We Worry about Family Change?, author Lewis delves into the complexities surrounding the rapid transformations in family structures over the past twenty-five years. By analyzing a wealth of literature and cross-national data, she highlights the decline of the traditional male-breadwinner model and the implications this has for existing laws and social policies. As the family dynamic evolves, it becomes increasingly clear that many policies are outdated and fail to accommodate the diverse realities of modern families.

The book addresses pressing questions about the nature of family change, particularly its effects on women and the necessity for reform in social policies. Lewis provides a thorough examination of significant topics, including the rise of cohabitation, the growing economic independence of women, and the challenges posed by absent fathers. Through this exploration, Should We Worry about Family Change? presents a comprehensive view of how these shifts in family dynamics shape societal expectations and legal frameworks.

Ultimately, Lewis argues for the need to adapt policies to better reflect contemporary family patterns. She proposes various policy options designed to enhance the choices available to both men and women regarding their roles in family life, promoting a sense of shared responsibility. This timely and insightful work not only informs readers about the current debates surrounding family change but also encourages thoughtful reflection on the future of family structures in society.