While understanding individual development theory is crucial as you prepare to be a counselor, equally important is understanding family development theories and the myriad factors that contribute to family development. Sociologist Evelyn Duvall (1957) identified 8 family life cycle stages based on a traditional definition of family. However, newer versions of this model have emerged since then, in an attempt to reflect a more modern approach to family development. While many of the stages Duvall identified are still applicable, in your practice you may see families that do not follow these stages. In this weeks assignment, you will examine your own understanding of how families develop. Contemplating your perspective on family development will help you determine the kinds of interventions you will use in your work with clients from disparate family experiences or cultures. Before completing this weeks assignment, the following resources from the to develop a framework for thinking about family development:
