This course is intended to expose students to research trends and theory in the scientific study of the family. Specifically, the course will focus on issues related to family interaction, functioning, relationships, and communication. Research and theories from communication perspectives especially, and also sociological and psychological perspectives will be examined. Readings and discussions will include coverage of marital, parent-child, sibling, stepfamily, and intergenerational interactions in the family. Research on topics such as marital satisfaction, divorce, courtship, and the impact of the family on its children (and vice versa) will be examined. We will also focus on the nature of family interaction as it is associated with family dysfunctions such as family violence, mental health problems, physical health, and marital distress. Finally, we will explore methods for improving family communication and relationships.