Family life in the 21st century: the implications for parenting policy in the UK

Abstract

The ever‐increasing diversity in family forms has provoked concerns in the UK about the instability of family life in the 21st century and promoted a plethora of policy initiatives aimed at strengthening families and supporting parents. This article explores the changes and continuities in family life and the implications for parenting and family policy. It argues that despite the immense diversity of family relationships, there is an enduring attachment to family ties and commitment. Understanding the inter‐relationships between risk and protective factors and how resilience may be fostered is critical, therefore, to the development of policies that can support families at times of stress.

Citation

Walker, J. (2008), "Family life in the 21st century: the implications for parenting policy in the UK", Journal of Children's Services, Vol. 3 No. 4, pp. 17-29. https://doi.org/10.1108/17466660200800023