Interpersonal conflict is a clash in the process of communication and interaction of people. Such clashes can occur both horizontally and vertically in various spheres and areas of human activity, both between first encountered and between people who constantly communicate. In both cases, an important role in the relationship is played by personal, especially psychological, perception of the partner in communication. TV shows typically present a big number of interpersonal conflicts to attract audience and make an interesting content. This paper will analyze Episode 1 from Modern Family, an American television family sitcom.
Personal differences in the understanding of the role of a parent and the contribution that a parent should make to child’s upbringing are the source of the conflict between the characters. Specifically, Jay puts a lot of effort into Manny (Jay and Javier’s son), and thinks of parenthood as a responsible duty that one should carry throughout their life. In contrast, Jay prioritizes fun and joy over his parent’s duties and responsibilities. The conflict itself arises because Jay fails to keep his promise to take Manny on trips. Both parties handle the conflict by avoidance (Bevan & Sole, 2014), which leads to negative outcomes, as the needs of the child remain unsatisfied. In addition, there is a high level of hostility between the parents. Avoidance is a strategy, when one of the parties (or both parties) does not seem to notice the contradictions that have arisen. In this case, one refrains from the conflict and try not to talk about it (Bevan & Sole, 2014). However, the result is a loss / loss, neither side is satisfied and the conflict is not resolved. In this case, it hinders further harmonious relations, leads to an escalation of the situation and accusations.
It is advisable to apply this strategy only when a temporary exit from the situation is needed, or when the issue does not matter much. This method is ineffective because parenthood is an important part of interpersonal relations that should be translated into practice in a way that has been negotiated before. Instead, a compromise would have been a more effective way of dealing with the conflict. A compromise is a mutual concession of both parties by obtaining partial satisfaction (Bevan & Sole, 2014). In this case, the requirements of both entities will be partially satisfied. However, in the course of the final result of losing / losing or winning / winning, neither side will receive full satisfaction. Most likely, further relations will become neutral or positive. At the same time, this result can help or hurt one of the subjects, since it was achieved as a result of a compromise. In case of a compromise, Jay can perform some of his duties as a parent, while simultaneously leading a joyful and fulfilled life of a fun-loving person that he is. In the meantime, Javier and Manny will receive some support from Jay, while respecting his desire to not to be a ‘traditional’ parent with a ‘classic’ set of duties. Also, not keeping one’s promise presents an issue as long as interpersonal communication is concerned, as it decreases the level of trust between the parties. This issue should also be negotiated between Jay and Javier.
In conclusion, TV shows typically offer a wide range of interpersonal conflicts and therefore present a rich ground for analysis. Parenthood is the type of interpersonal relations, where conflicts are very common, given the complexity of this phenomenon. As discusses in the paper, compromise is one of effective strategies of dealing with issues related differences in the understanding and practicing of parenthood. In this case, the requirements of both entities will be partially satisfied.
- Bevan, J. L., & Sole, K. (2014). Making connections: Understanding interpersonal communication (2nd ed.) [Electronic version]. Retrieved from https://content.ashford.edu/
