This introductory textbook presents an accessible, interdisciplinary account of how `the family′ is constituted in `public′ and `private′ spheres. Drawing on a range of theoretical perspectives from sociology, social policy, psychology and psychoanalysis, the book examines critically assumptions about ′the family′ that are embedded in social policy, law and political discourse. It reveals that such assumptions fail to recognize a marked diversity of family forms in contemporary society and also ignore the complex ways in which family life comes to be experienced. It outlines the tensions that exist between the dominant assumptions of state and society and the lived realities and everyday experiences of family life. Understanding the Family constitutes an integrated and accessible set of teaching materials which will encourage students to develop a clear and critical understanding of the family in contemporary society.