APA Dictionary of Psychology

the psychosocial conditions in which a family lives and functions. Family members influence and are influenced by these conditions. If the family environment is positive and supportive, its members have a greater likelihood of meeting life’s challenges and transitions in a healthy and adaptive way. For example, adolescents raised in family environments characterized by cohesion, organization, and infrequent conflict are better able to adjust to school and attain high academic achievement than are adolescents who come from family environments filled with conflict and marked by disunity.