THE IMPORTANCE OF VALUES IN THE STUDY OF CULTURALLY DIVERSE FAMILIES

Values and assumptions that family researchers possess have an impact on their approaches to understanding families. An examination of one's own values may be a necessary prerequisite for the study of culturally diverse families. Such examination may lead to understanding the limitations of existing paradigms and canons, which have as their foundation cultural values and assumptions. Suggestions are made to practitioners for how to create relevant knowledge, with values in mind, to address the needs of diverse families.