This course provides an overview of the family as a communication system. Strong focus is placed on interaction patterns within a range of family types and structures. The course is based on an analytic framework which includes cohesion and adaptability as well as secondary family functions. Topics such as the following are directly addressed: multigenerational communication influences, ethnicity and family interaction, family communication patterns as reflected in rituals, narratives and rules, the development and maintenance of intimacy among family members, family conflict models and constructive vs. destructive conflict strategies, decision making, and developmental change. Final course segments address communication in a variety of family forms and range of ways of improving family communication. In short, this is a course about interaction patterns among family members in multiple types of families.

Course Procedure
This course includes a series of videotapes. This study guide is used as a guide throughout the entire course. Each class is summarized through identification of key concepts, reading assignments, and suggestions for journal assignments within the study guide.