Prioritized Functions of Family Systems Over Time: A Qualitative Analysis

There remain gaps in the literature with respect to how individuals perceive, identify, and make sense of the functions of their families over time as social systems. Leveraging a qualitative approach rooted in a contextual constructionist epistemology and life course theory, the prioritized functions of family systems were explored via semi-structured, in-depth interviews among 17 adults in various regions of the United States (50% non-Hispanic White; 40% non-Hispanic Black/African American/African descent) who indicated providing care for at least one child from infancy to legal adulthood. Qualitative analyses foregrounded five prioritized functions, namely, secure and maintain connection, procure resources, bolster development, foster safety and well-being, and support self-actualization. Analyses also highlighted several important contextual factors that influence (a) what functions families prioritize in a given period of time and (b) help or hinder families’ ability to fulfill those functions. Study limitations, practical implications, and directions for future research are discussed.