What is external change in the context of family functioning?

External change in the context of family functioning refers to shifts and developments in the broader community or societal environment that can impact how families operate and interact. Such changes might include economic shifts, changes in local laws, cultural trends, or social services that become accessible or unavailable. These factors can influence family dynamics, decision-making processes, and overall well-being by altering the resources, opportunities, or challenges families face.

For instance, if a community implements a new policy that provides greater access to childcare services, this can relieve some of the pressures on working families, allowing them to allocate time and resources differently. Similarly, economic downturns can reduce job opportunities and destabilize family income, affecting everything from stress levels to family relationships.

The other options focus either on changes that are limited to individual family members or do not encompass the broader socio-economic environment. Changes only within a household or immediate neighborhood do not capture the systemic influences that external community factors can have on family functioning. In this way, understanding external change is essential for recognizing the interconnectedness of family life and the larger societal context in which it exists.