| Term | Definition |
| COPE | to use acceptable techniques to overcome difficulties, solve a problem, or adapt to a situation |
| CRISIS | an unstable or critical situation in which the outcome will make a decisive difference for better or worse |
| FAMILY | a person or group of persons joined together by blood, marriage, adoption, or other bonds who are committed to each other and provide emotional support |
| FAMILY LIFE CYCLE | series of stages through which an average family passes |
| FAMILY STRUCTURES | the makeup of a family group based on the relationships of the members in the family |
| FUNCTIONAL FAMILY | family in which the members relate to each other in positive ways |
| LIFE CHANGES | significant events that transform individuals and families |
| SIBLING | a brother or sister |