Title: Describe the family life cycle.
Course: Individual Development (19260-18) > Section: Managing Work and Family Responsibilities for the Well-Being of Self and Others

Description should include

- a definition of family life cycle (e.g., the emotional and intellectual stages one passes through as a member of a family)
- the following stages:
  - beginning (e.g., dating, handling rejection, exploring intimacy)
  - child rearing (infants through adolescents)
  - launching (i.e., pushing the child toward an independent future)
  - mid-year (e.g., making the decision to retire)
  - aging (facing new freedoms and insecurities).

Process/Skill Questions:

Thinking

- What is the difference between coupling and marriage?
- What are various stages in the family life cycle?
- How would you develop adult relationships with your grown children?

Communication

- How can a child demonstrate independence?
- What are possible communication barriers throughout the family life cycle?
- How would you explain the family life cycle to someone with limited language skills?

Leadership

- How are leadership skills demonstrated by parenting?
- What leadership traits are gained through the various stages of the family life cycle?
- What steps are needed to move into a retirement facility?

Management

- What are some techniques for managing resources for seniors and small children in a single household?
- How might your responsibilities change throughout the family life cycle?
- What are some unpredictable factors or events that might change your future plans?