Abstract
In this paper, I first describe changes, current status, and diversity concerning U.S. families. Diversity in American families stems from cultural and traditional differences across ethnicities, social classes, and regions. Second, using the U.S. Census and other data, some major familial changes, including a rise in the divorce rate, delayed marriage, a decline in households with legally married couples, and an increase in single parent households, will be detailed. Third, in response to these demographic changes, new definitions concerning families will be proposed. In addition, I will review sociological studies on fatherhood and gay and lesbian families in the U.S. Finally, a gender lens approach that is useful for family sociological research will be discussed.
