Abstract

The volume presents work on continuities and change that challenge normative definitions of family. The chapters are based on lived reality and include contributions from UK, South Africa and China. The collected work is organised in two sections with some chapters linked to austerity impacts in UK and Europe; some linked to methodological innovation and some reflecting international experiences. Whilst the work is not culturally comparative we consider the global impact of neo-liberal ideology on our perceptions of family and parenting in the 21st century. The international dimension illustrates causes and consequences of globalisation and consequent effect on the economic and personal lives of individuals and families. The empirical evidence base of this volume covers the time span from early 2000’s to the present day and offers critical analysis, current thinking and research in the field of personal, intimate and family lives.