What is a family? The answer might have been easy a generation ago, but today a much wider range of possibilities exists. This program offers a thought-provoking look at the changing roles, structures, and functions of the family unit. Societal expectations, technological advancements, and changes in cultural and sexual diversity are explored. A range of emotional, environmental, economic, and health-related considerations are presented as further reasons for evolving family characteristics. The video presents four Australian case studies of family forms, including interviews with family members, as well as discussions of the future of the family.

Encoded with permission for digital streaming by Infobase on June 03, 2009. Learn360 is distributed by Infobase for Films for the Humanities & Sciences, Cambridge Educational, Meridian Education, and Shopware.

Definition of a Family (2:22) -- Family Structures (4:57) -- Family: Changing Roles (4:35) -- Family: Key Reasons for Change (4:26) -- Families of the Future (6:12).