Family business research: Reviewing the past, contemplating the future

This paper reviews articles published in the Journal of Family and Economic Issues (JFEI) from 2010 to 2019 and considers future research opportunities. The JFEI articles utilize theories and conceptual frameworks from several social science fields, to help readers understand the importance of including both the family and business in any discussion of family businesses. The literature review addresses four family business topical areas: (1) household and business economics, (2) business continuity and succession, (3) managerial and adoption strategies, and (4) values and goals. These JFEI articles have focused on differentiating family businesses from other types of businesses; explaining the unique interface between the family and the business; and identifying the characteristics (i.e., demographics, adjustment strategies, continuity, capitals, and values and goals) for family business survival and success. In the future, family business researchers have the opportunity to better understand the impact of community resources and climate; more carefully assess the challenges of women, minorities, and immigrants; understand the role of cultural capital; and explore the impact of innovation during rapidly changing times, such as those created by the pandemic.