ABSTRACT
This chapter first defines the family of today, with its scope covering why we want children, the ideal size for a family, the ideal setting for bringing up children, and what constitutes a family. Then, it specifies how parenting is defined for this book. It finishes with crucial factors that have a strong influence on parenting. To enable the reader to appreciate the information and discuss it, select theories and models concerning parenting are included. And for quick reference, two tables herein summarise the pros and cons of small versus large families, and significant factors that influence parenting.
