According to Foster, how does family experience change as individuals age?

The assertion that family experience evolves as individuals age is grounded in the understanding that families undergo significant changes over time. As individuals progress through different life stages—from childhood to adolescence, adulthood, and into old age—their roles, relationships, and dynamics within the family structure transform.

For instance, children rely heavily on their parents for support and guidance, but as they grow into teenagers and adults, they seek more independence and often begin forming their identities separate from the family unit. Similarly, as parents age, their roles may shift from caregivers to those being cared for, especially when they reach old age. The interaction between family members can also change—for example, the introduction of spouses, children, and extended family can bring new dynamics, altering how relationships are navigated.

This evolutionary perspective highlights the fluidity of family experiences, which contrasts with the idea of remaining static, decreasing, or simply becoming more complex without acknowledging the broader spectrum of changes that occur throughout the life course. The notion of evolution implies an ongoing process where relationships deepen, shift, or sometimes deteriorate, reflecting the complexity of human development and social interaction within the family.