Many of the decisions that are most crucial to development are made at the
family level: Who works? How many children? Who is educated? How much
savings? Investments? Who moves? Who votes, and how? [...] Using intrahousehold
approach to understanding the family as a crucial institution in
development makes it likely that three 'goods' can be served: equity,
efficiency, and family stabilization. [...] Understanding household dynamics can
help planners design more effective projects that reinforce rather than corrode
family relationships.