The family has been undergoing uncountless changes along the last decades, specially regarding its structure. Thus, nowadays, it has become subject to various kinds of adjustments. However, the basic functions of the family institution, the process of the psychological development of its members, remain the same. In view of this reality, adolescence and family relations have been the focus of a number of studies. The purpose of this research was to present a systematization of the results obtained through a bibliographic study involving two themes: family and adolescence. The referenced literature points out that the changes which occurred in the society, in the family structure and, in the way parents were raised have caused difficulties as regards the children's education, specially in the adolescence. Moreover, the early sexual initiation and drug addiction problem have been a concern to parents. It was concluded that more research should be conducted on family issues and adolescence, taking into consideration issues such as sexuality and substance abuse.
Family; adolescence; human development