Dr. Frank Furstenberg, Jr., will address the question of how families are shaped by varying economic contexts both in the U.S. and in comparative perspective, including a review of past and ongoing research that examines how family form and function responds to economic conditions. This will lead to a larger discussion of the role of public policy in strengthening families and the well-being of children and youth. The plenary will be followed by a discussion period with Dr. Furstenberg.