Family Policy Matters

Contents: T. Ooms, Foreword. T.J. Corbett, Foreword. Preface: The Floating Opera of Family Policy. Preface to Reluctant Students of Family Policy. Part I: The Rationale for Family Policymaking. Do We Need a Family Perspective in Policymaking? Is Policymaking Focused More on Families or Individuals?; Are Professionals Adequately Trained in Family Science, Theory, and Methodology? What Is Family Policy?; What Is a Family Perspective in Policymaking? Do Families Matter and What Is Their Value in Policymaking? Are Family Issues a Legitimate Focus of Policymaking? Part II: Applying a Family Perspective to Current Policy Issues. D. Riley, K. Bogenschneider, Do We Know What Good Parenting Is?; Can Public Policy Promote It? W.J. Doherty, J.R. Anderson, Can a Family-Focused Approach Benefit Health Care? What Current Policies and Proposals Are Changing the Political Landscape for Families? Part III: Using Theory and Practice to Move Controversial Policies Forward. How Can We Bridge the Controversy and Move Family Policies Forward?; The Theory of Paradox. K. Bogenschneider, T. Corbett, What Can We Learn From the Roots of American Social Policy About Building Enduring Family Policies in the 21st Century? What Can We Learn From the Past About Methods for Moving Family Policy Forward in the Future? Part IV: Strategies for Getting Involved in Family Policymaking. What Roles Can Family Professionals Play to Build Family Policy? Which Approach Is Best for Getting Involved in Family Policy: Advocacy or Education? K. Bogenschneider, J.R. Olson, J. Mills, K.D. Linney, How Can We Connect Research With State Policymaking?; Lessons From the Wisconsin Family Impact Seminars. How Can Professionals Team Up With Communities to Influence Local Policymaking?; Guidelines From Wisconsin Youth Futures. Is It Time to Take Family Policy Seriously? Appendices.