Answer to Question 1
Comic strips are largely consistent in presenting idealized conceptions of family roles in
America, but LaRossa's research does show that they do reflect some degree of change in
culture roles. The imaging of change (or lack of) may be as much a product of the artist's
characterization as being an accurate reflection of change in the larger American society.
Answer to Question 2
Almost all comic strip featuring family characters portray the traditional nuclear family
form. Although LaRossa, et.al. found that there were fluctuating images of the gender
roles characterized over time, there has not been change of large magnitude in both
fathering and mothering roles (generally within 20 of each other). Fathers were generally
presented as fairly capable, caring, and nurturant parents. The character of fathers did
fluctuate from decade to decade, becoming more capable during war years, and more
incompetent during other decades.
The character of the mothering role has modernized somewhat, with more mothers working
outside the home while still having children. Almost no single parents and few minorities
(about 5 of families) were portrayed, which fails to reflect the composition of the larger
American society. The character of the comic strip artists appeared to affect the
characterizations presented, with males presenting the more traditional nuclear family,
while female artists presenting more female role alternatives.
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