Research Themes


Families and Children

Families form, change and vanish as people enter into or dissolve unions and make fertility choices, or as children or other members join or depart. These dynamics affect family members’ economic, health and social status. The nature and quality of interpersonal relationships within a family also have large implications for the well-being of its members. So, too, do the choices children make as they grow up and assume adult roles. Changes in patterns of union formation, childbearing, and interactions within households have both shaped and reflected larger changes in gender roles, social norms, labor markets, economic inequality, and public policy. The following three sub-themes characterize our affiliates’ research on key issues in the demography of families and children.