The Cultural Definition of the Family

Abstract

Cultural dimensions of the contemporary American family are explored in this paper. Current statistics indicate that family size and the number of two-parent families are decreasing while the number of single-parent families and single father-headed households is increasing. Given these and other figures related to the growing minority representation in the population, teenage pregnancy, families with battered women, and even artificial reproduction, the family unit is seen as extremely diverse in its composition, perceptions and performance and its influence on child outcomes. A challenge is extended to physical and occupational therapists working with these culturally diverse families. Rather than categorizing families according to ethnicity, poverty level, or family structure, each family may be considered as cultural unity itself. Recognition of the cultural dimensions of each family is preliminary to an interaction with family members. Guidelines for the physical and occupational therapist are presented to assist in identifying family priorities in relation to intervention with special needs children performing within their unique family cultures.