The first synthesis of the field, the two volumes of the Handbook of Family Life Education provide a critical perspective on family life education in theory and practice. Volume One discusses the nature, history and scope of the field. The contributors concentrate on the crucial question of values, on issues of professionalization of family life educators and on programme planning and evaluation. The most important components in family life education are discussed, including topics such as: race, ethnicity, gender and religion.

Volume Two identifies the major content areas where family life education is practised - particularly marriage enrichment, parent education, sex education, and ageing. It outlines the key content questions, literature sources, current educational practices and emerging directions in each area to assist programme developers and leaders to improve their practice.