Future Families: Diverse Forms, Rich Possibilities

In contrast to a cultural ideal of a perfect family composed of heterosexual, married parents with biological children, contemporary families violate this ideal in fundamental ways. Many are unmarried, raise nonbiologically related children, achieve parenthood through assistance from new reproductive technologies and are raised by same gender parents. However, most children reared in these new family forms are well adjusted, especially if supported by extended families and communities. Social policies need to better reflect the realities of contemporary family forms.