Family interactions on primetime television: A descriptive analysis of assertive power interactions

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Abstract
Decision making, problem solving, and conflict resolution in the family environment have been closely linked to the family power process identified by Olson and Cromwell (1975). According to these authors, assertiveness is one of the specific concepts that characterize the process of power in the family. This term essentially defines the frequency of attempts and the type of strategies that an individual employs to influence the behavior of other family members. Working from social learning theory, this investigation seeks to establish the range and frequency of assertive power as it is portrayed across family roles in primetime television. The results of this study will serve as an important first step in assessing the potential impact of social learning as it relates to decision making, problem solving, and conflict resolution in the family environment.