ABSTRACT
Socialist relations of production form an objective foundation for family relations based on mutual attraction, love, and respect between man and woman and shared responsibility for the care and education of children. Cuban social policies that have influenced the development of the family include those dealing with demographics, women’s participation in the work force, education, health, and housing. Among the population policies that have affected the family, those concerned with the evolution of the fertility rate, the rate at which new families are formed, and family size are of particular interest. Health policies have been based on the principles of the responsibility of the state for guaranteeing this service, coordination and planning of services, and popular participation. The national health system ensures medical attention and especially prevention services and health education, mother/infant care, and family medicine. One aspect of social policy that favors the family is the legal, social, and economic protection afforded pregnant women.
