Which family life cycle stage involves the growth of a family due to the arrival of children?

The stage in the family life cycle that involves the growth of a family due to the arrival of children is expanding. This phase typically occurs after the coupling stage, where two individuals come together to form a family unit. During the expanding stage, families often experience an increase in their size as they welcome children. This can significantly impact the family dynamics, responsibilities, and relationships as parents take on new roles in nurturing and raising their children. The focus during this stage is often on the emotional and logistical adjustments that come with parenting, including considerations of child development, education, and family bonding.

Other stages mentioned, such as coupling, involve the initial formation of a partnership without children, while the launching stage refers to children growing up and becoming independent, leaving home. The dissolution stage signifies the end of a family unit due to separation or divorce. Therefore, the defining characteristic of the expanding stage is the active process of family growth through the arrival of offspring.