Nature of Change

Change that happens within the group.

This may be the size, structure or role allocation.

Marriage

Divorce

Birth of a child

Adoption

Change of address

A change in the wider community that has influenced the functioning of the family.

• Economic change: reduced economic activity can lead to unemployment

• Legal change: maternity leave entitlements changed

• Social change: greater acceptance of gay and lesbian relationships/ marriage

• Technological change: smart phone technology has both reduced and enhanced communication within families and communities.

A change that occurs with prior knowledge.

Retirement

Marriage

Adult children or aged parents moving in

Children leaving home to attend university

A change that is unexpected so a response to the change cannot be prepared in advance.

Family

• Death of a spouse or family member

• Illness or injury

• Unplanned pregnancy

• Loss of job - unemployment

Community

• Flood, cyclone, fire, drought

• Bombings

• Air, water or food contamination

A change that lasts for an unspecified period of time. Members can see a possible return to routine.

Family

• Treatable illness

• A young adult moving back home to save money

Community

• Road detours due to construction

A change that lasts forever

Family

• Divorce or death of a family member

• Parenthood

• A serious injury, such as paraplegia

Community

• Infrastructure change such as a new motorway bypass

• New service such as a swimming pool