This anthology examines the contemporary status of Latino families, especially their great racial and ethnic diversity. The book focuses on the strengths of Latino/Hispanic groups, structural processes that impede their progress, and cultural and familial processes that enhance their intergenerational adaptation and resiliency. Chapter 1, "The Study of Latino Families," presents a theoretical overview of important themes in the research literature and how recent social and economic trends may be affecting the Latino family. Chapter 2, "The Diversity of Latino Families," discusses changes over the last 30 years in the economic well-being of Latino families in comparison to other groups. Chapter 3, "Variations, Combinations, and Evolutions," reviews past and present social science research on family-relevant issues such as effects of assimilation, ethnic identity, familism (commitment to family), Spanish-language maintenance, the underclass model, family structure, women's issues, gender roles, and directions for future research. Chapter 4, "The Status of Latino Children and Youth," discusses central concerns of Latino children and adolescents. Chapter 5, "Including Latino Fathers in Parent Education and Support Programs," describes designing a program appropriate for low-income Latino fathers in Los Angeles. Chapter 6, "Central American Refugees in Los Angeles," describes the community conditions and family needs of Salvadoran and Guatemalan refugees. Chapter 7, "Latino Youth and Families as Active Participants in Planning Change," describes a community-university project to prevent youth alcohol and drug problems. Chapter 8, "Family and Child Health," discusses the health and human services needs of Latino children and families, identifying obstacles in developing relevant policies and legislative issues that may benefit Latino families. Chapter 9, "Social Science Theorizing for Latino Families in the Age of Diversity," identifies ongoing concerns in social science thinking about Latino families, and proposes an expanded theoretical paradigm that would enable more meaningful and culturally sensitive investigation of Latino families. Chapter 10, "Contemporary Issues in Latino Families," summarizes the major themes of Latino scholarship to date, and proposes areas of future research, policy, and practice. More than 400 references are included. (TM)