The Fall From Grace

Abstract

This article examines the portrayal of family relationships in domestic comedy television programs. Participants were randomly assigned to view samples of 8 programs, selected for the study on the basis of their popularity during the period 1984 to 1994. After viewing the sample episodes, participants evaluated each television family using rating scales drawn from family theory. Examination of the ratings revealed a model of television family life in which children construct a relatively hostile relational environment for each other and parents exert a compensatory effect, developing relationships with each other and with their children that appear supportive and friendly. Although most families were evaluated in comparatively positive ways, 2 families, the Conners (Roseanne ) and Taylors (Home Improvement ), were evaluated in ways that implied significant relational difficulty. These findings, together with the limitations and implications of the study, are discussed.