This report, resulting from presentations at the 105th Annual Forum of the National Conference on Social Welfare in May 1978 in Los Angeles, California, outlines the interactions between families and society in America. It emphasizes the importance of creating social supports that will assist and strengthen families in their efforts to fulfill expected functions successfully for themselves and for the benefit of society. Additionally, the report focuses on changes in family structure and functions that are generating widespread concern, and examines and recommends public policies that could be established or modified to address areas of concern such as childrearing, physical and emotional health, employment and financial needs, education, social services, and aging. (Author/HLM)