Dialectics of family identity
Abstract
The early Critical Theory position on 'the family' is examined
in light of contemporary critical and feminist positions . It
is necessary, this analysis reveals, to be constantly aware
of ideological representations of 'the family ' . Sociopolitical
ideologies can dominate individuals through the
implicit and explicit creatio~ of expectations about family
roles, interactions and stru~tures . The psychodynamics of
socio-political and patriarchal domination are examined to
further an analysis of how normative expectations, often based
on patriarchal assumptions, can lead to the oppression of
individuals --particu larly women and children-- in family
settings. By recognizing that a multiplicity of family forms
exist that are in constant dialectical relationship with
changing socio-political forces, a less distorted
understanding of family life might be obtained.
A concept of family identity is developed to understand how
socio-political forces interact with familial understandings
and affect individuals psychologically . Family identity is
defined as: the interpretations and understandings that
individuals have of the emotional relationships between their
self and family. A dialectic that is central to family
identity is that of family as lived experience-family as
representation. Self-identity is in constant dialectical
relationship with family identity. The implications of a selfidentity
that is construed dialectically as autonomousinteractive
are examined in light of family identity. The
family problems of distorted communication and marital
violence are interpreted using family identity . How family
identity might inform emancipatory praxis is briefly explored ..