The Family Life Course

The family life course is a way of understanding how families and individuals change and develop over time. It considers key stages like forming a partnership, having children, raising a family, and eventually experiencing retirement or loss. This framework helps us see how personal decisions, social expectations, and cultural factors influence family experiences at different ages. It also highlights that family roles and relationships evolve, shaping life’s trajectory and overall well-being. Understanding this process provides insight into the challenges and transitions families face throughout their lives.