This booklet is the report of the Working Group on Children and Family Breakdown: The Positive Role of Nurses and Midwives, which was convened by the World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe and was attended by members of health disciplines, representatives of community groups, and journalists from the nursing and popular press. These topics related to family breakdown are discussed: (1) family breakdown as a health issue; (2) the influence on children; (3) a framework for action; (4) prevention; (5) family support; (6) a comprehensive service to families; (7) the nursing contribution; (8) a political dimension; and (9) a future perspective. Conclusions and recommendations are offered in the areas of research, coordination of services, children, intervention, prevention, nursing, and political dimensions. References, a list of existing informal programs, and a list of conference participants are included. The report concludes with summaries in French, German, and Russian. (ABL)