The stages of family life based on demographic data that are useful in defining the markets for certain goods and services. Each group has its own specific and distinguishable needs and interests.

A series of changes undergone by a family over time (e.g., a couple; a family with preschoolers, with school-age children, with adolescents, and in the launching years; an empty nest couple; a retired couple).

Describes how a traditional family evolves from bachelorhood to children to solitary retirement.

The stages of family life common in the United States, including singlehood, marriage, married with children, senior couples, and single survivors.

Different stages of family life depending on the age of the parents and how many children are living at home.