Final answer:
The family experiences difficulties in making transitions, which is known as the family life cycle. This theory categorizes the different stages a family goes through and is used to study the dynamics of family and determine their needs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The family experiences difficulties in making transitions. When this occurs, it is referred to as the family life cycle. This theory categorizes the phases a family goes through, with each stage having its own structure, challenges, and accomplishments.
Sociologists use the family life cycle to study the dynamics of family over time, while consumer and marketing researchers use it to determine what goods and services families need as they progress through each stage.