Marriages and Families in the 21st Century provides an in-depth exploration of a traditional field of study using a new and engaging approach.* Uses a bioecological model that takes into account our status as both biological and social beings* Employs a strengths-based approach that focuses on family processes rather than structure in evaluating families' optimal health and happiness* Incorporates discussion of neuroscience, medicine, and biopsychological research throughout* Explores a wide diversity of family relationships, integrating issues of ethnicity, culture, sexual orientation, and gender*Focus on my Family boxes profile real families who wrote essays in their own words about their diverse experiences*How Would You Measure That? sections emphasize students' critical thinking and analysis of research design and conclusions* Helps students analyze their own families' strengths and attempt to build on those through psychometrically sound self-assessments and Building Your Strengths exercises* Engaging and accessible writing style incorporates contemporary, real-world examples with important theory and research