An introduction to current and traditional theories of the family, with attention given to the evolution of these frameworks, as well as recent theoretical developments and research pertaining to the study of the family. Applications of these frameworks to family studies will focus on the diversity among families due to various contextual factors (e.g. race, ethnicity, culture, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, family structure, history, and sociopolitical context. Extensive reading of relevant supporting research articles (provided) is expected.