Based on a relevant doctoral study with the same title, and covering the years from 1930 to 1986, this report analyzes the origin and development of family policy measures in South Africa against the background of sociopolitical and socioeconomic change. Its main focus is on the changes that family life has undergone over the years in South Africa and the implications of those changes for family policy, including changes in (1) political policy; (2) marriage and divorce measures; (3) child and family care; (4) social security and (5) political measures with an effect on family life. The original study involved the analysis of selected policy documents related to social change and family life. The first chapter of this report provides an orientation to the study, while the second chapter discusses the conceptualization of family and family policy. The third chapter reviews the development of family policy in South Africa between 1930 and 1983, divided by sociopolitical events as follows: 1930-1938, the Great Depression; 1939-1947, World War II and after the war; 1948-1982, the Apartheid era; and 1983-1986, a transitional period. The final chapter presents an overview of the findings regarding the family and family policy, and social changes and their implications for family life. In conclusion, the report suggests that despite recent criticism, the family is an institution that should be cherished and protected. Enlightened family policy, accompanied by thorough research, planning, and the involvement of all population groups in the policy-making process, can make a real contribution to the quality of marital and family life in South Africa. Contains approximately 90 references. (AA)