In the contemporary Western world political, economic and social changes have radically altered the traditional family. Largely rural before the 20th century, extended families supported family values. The 20th century has seen urbanization, multiculturalism, multimedia, mobility and globalization. Most families have fewer children, both parents are employed, and the extended family is not nearby. Many families have only one parent, and frequently these families are under the poverty level.
Many births are from unmarried single women, often teenagers.
Abortion is a national controversy. Marriage is often across cultural and religious differences. Church attendance has declined. The family faces enormous challenges. However, the Bible speaks directly to many of the issues of contemporary family life.