These collections reflect the cultural diversity of the American family by providing a collection of related articles that combine race, class, sex, and race. The collection of 35 readings reveals both historical trends and unique changes that broaden our understanding of the diversity, patterns and dynamics of the American family. New topics in the fourth edition include: online dating, the Internet and family relationships, wives and families of professional baseball players, portraying parents in picture books, and the only parent through choice, divorce and paternity.

The readings avoid advanced terminology and statistical techniques, which are easily accessible to non-sociologists. Each selection is accompanied by a brief introductory statement highlighting its social significance and containing an introductory paper focusing on relevant issues and concerns..