Social and political attention often is focused on urban issues, neglecting the still-rural character of much of the United States. This volume of original papers provides a clear picture of present-day rural society, with special emphasis on the changing role and structure of the family. It describes demographic trends, discusses the family aspects of the new wave of inmigrants to small towns and rural communities, reviews the diversity of patterns and forms adopted by rural families, considers the plight of the rural aged, and explores the dynamics of intrafamily personal relationships. The book ends with speculations on future prospects and challenges facing rural families.