Chapter 15, Problem 2CC-P394

Summary Introduction

Introduction

Symbolic interactionism emphasizes context and subjective experience over the functions of families. Functionalism describes power as a top-down model with parents in charge, but symbolic interactionism argues that relationships do not always follow that pattern. Power differentials are not taken for granted, but the person less interested in the relationship often has more power. Critics say symbolic interactionism describes but does not explain family dynamics. Feminists argue that symbolic interactionism ignores deeply embedded gender differences in power.