"Family Communication: Cohesion and Change" examines the communication processes within families and how they affect and are affected by larger social systems. By viewing the family as a communication system with identifiable patterns, the authors encourage the reader to observe family interaction patterns analytically and relate communication theories to family interaction. Using a framework of family functions, first-person narratives, and current research, "Family Communication: Cohesion and Change" emphasizes the diversity of today' s families in terms of structure, ethnic patterns, and developmental experiences.