FAMILY COMMUNICATION ON PRIME-TIME TELEVISION

Episodes of two of the most popular family sitcoms, The Cosby Show and The Simpsons, were analyzed to determine the family communication pat terns available as models for viewers. Communication in both families was affiliative rather than conflictive. Communication among the Huxta bles was primarily centered on parents and children, seeking and givin g information, with spouses offering little direction or support. On t he other hand, communication among the Simpsons was primarily centered on parents and spouses, offering support and direction.