Based on the background of modernization，this article tries to explore the Chinese traditional idea on family and the modern idea on family；and their similarities and differences in three aspects，namely family function，family relationship and value idea. Moreover，we also analyze the reasons for these changes. According to the findings，regarding the idea on family in new period，the cultural feedback continues to deepen；the family and individual is forming the complementary relationship. Regarding the contemporary youth’s idea on family，its change is jointly influenced by the changes in economy，culture，society and family structure. We should put forward some corresponding suggestions to contemporary youth，hence the contemporary youth could construct healthy idea on family.