11706. WHEN FAMILY BUSINESSES GO PUBLIC. Examines the contemporary American family business in terms of one of its key transitions -- the decision to go public. Defines family business and presents an overview of its scope and position in American enterprise. Looks in detail at the family business approaching the IPO. The reasons or motivations for going public, the possibility of maintaining control after going public, and the consequences of going public are considered. 20 pages, 62 footnotes, 40 bibliographic sources.