Here are the clues. I read it in 1993/4 and think it was newly published. Massive hard back a sociological study of one American family. Very accessibly written but I think it was an academic work.
I remember it being v interesting on WW2 and the Vietnam era. At least one daughter was heavily involved in drugs.
I really enjoyed the book and would like to reread it if only I could find it. Thanks in advance!