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North Seattle Community College CMN 145. Gender and Family Communication. Symbolic Meanings and Relational Maintenance: Rituals and Stories. “Every family lives in its own symbolic world, yet also participates in the larger world of shared symbolic activity” ( Family Communication 106).
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North Seattle Community CollegeCMN 145 Gender and Family Communication Symbolic Meanings and Relational Maintenance: Rituals and Stories
“Every family lives in its own symbolic world, yet also participates in the larger world of shared symbolic activity” (Family Communication 106).
“What is most important about a family situation or event is not what happened but what it means to each family member” (106).
Family Symbols & Rituals • Couple Rituals • Family Cultural Rituals • Intergenerational Rituals • Family Ceremonies and Celebrations
Stories carry important messages to family members: Remember Create belonging and reaffirm family destiny Educate current members Aid changes Provide stability entertain Family Stories
Types of Stories • How did this family come to be? • Are parents really human? • How does a child become a male or female in this family? • Will the family stand behind its members? • How does the family handle adversity? • Why does it mean to be a ___ (family name)?