ABSTRACT
Family life has changed dramatically in the past three decades in most countries in Europe. Demographic, social and economic changes have affected the living arrangements and family experiences of children. Children are now born into more diverse family circumstances and are more likely to experience a transition from one family type to another than in earlier decades. The changing nature of relationships and diversity of family types, the increase in family breakup and solo living as well as the relative importance of friends and families are often seen as indicators of family instability.
