How Does Symbolic Interaction Theory Affect Families

Families are similar but not the same. Even though there are norms that pertain to each family, not all families work the same way, as seen when families of different cultures are observed. This paper will define the Symbolic Interaction theory, Social Exchange theory, Family Systems theory, and Structural Functional theory and determine how well each of these theories fit my family of origin. The first theory is the Symbolic Interaction theory. According to Welch (2012) this theory is the belief that humans communicate all the time through social behavior, even when the individual is not necessarily vocalizing their opinion. Many times a symbol such as a smile, a hug, or a kiss can mean so much more than just words. In addition, humans are complicated, and may sometimes speak completely opposite to how they feel, otherwise known as sarcasm. This theory fits my family of origin. In Chinese culture, it is not often that individuals speak their minds, especially when it comes to elders. My parents are …show more content…
According to Welch (2012), Murray Bowen developed this theory. This theory looks at families like different parts of a car or engine that works together in the very best and balanced way. However, each of the members of the family are dynamic and are able to affect one person, and may spread it throughout the family. This theory fits with my family very well. When I was in high school, I did not like to do homework or study for quizzes or tests. This would frustrate my mother, and she would lecture me to get me to focus on my studies. When I did not listen to her, mom would bother dad, saying he how he did not care about my studies at all. After hearing an earful from mom, dad would tell me off, which had me doing homework or studying in the end. Therefore, because I did not listen to my mother, her agitation caused my dad to be agitated, which caused me to be agitated when I ended up doing what I was originally told to