What type of change occurs outside the family unit but affects its functioning?

The correct answer is external change, as this term specifically refers to factors outside of the family unit that can influence its dynamics and functioning. External changes encompass a wide range of influences, such as economic shifts, societal trends, technological advancements, and environmental factors. These changes may not originate from within the family structure but can significantly impact family relationships, roles, and stability.

For example, an economic downturn may lead to job losses, thereby changing the family’s financial situation and requiring adjustments in how family members relate to one another and manage their resources. Such external changes highlight the interdependence between families and the broader societal context in which they exist, illustrating how outside forces can drive shifts in family function.

Other types of changes mentioned, such as unplanned, temporary, and permanent changes, describe specific characteristics or durations of change rather than the origin outside the family unit itself. Unplanned change is more about the unforeseen nature of an event, while temporary and permanent changes relate to the duration and lasting effect of changes rather than their external nature.