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 ..