What is a definition of family that encompasses the different family structures prevalent today?

A family is defined as a group of two or more persons related by blood, marriage, or adoption and residing together (Ganong & Coleman, 2017). This definition of family encompasses the different types of family structures that exist today. Nontraditional families are an increasingly common and important to acknowledge due to their growing prevalence in society today. These nontraditional families include divorced families, gay or lesbian couples raising children, single-parent households and blended or stepfamilies—all of which are equally important and should be recognized for the unique responsibilities, dynamics and challenges that come with each type of structure.

The use of Family Systems Theory can be invaluable in better understanding the interactions within modernized family structures. This theory focuses on subsystems comprised of individuals who interact within tight boundaries where there is a focus on maintaining balance and order (Anderson et al., 2020). For example, when considering a divorced couple who shares custodially custody over their young children they must maintain an equilibrium while trying to separate parenting tasks between two households. By utilizing Family Systems Theory individuals can understand how their actions affect other members within the system along with its collective functioning as whole..

References:
Anderson S., McMillen J., & Steele M. (2020). A Guide to Working with Families: Applying Family Systems Theory Across Contexts. The Guilford Press
Ganong L., & Coleman M. (2017). An Introduction To Marriage And Family Therapy textbook 2nd Ed.. Thomson Brooks/Cole