Tuesday, November 16, 2010

"We have to move. My husband's been transferred to Southern California."


Discuss the issue of mobility among American Suburbanites?

How does the sometimes transient nature of the suburban lifestyle impact the nuclear family? What about the extended family? How might it alter one's sense of belonging?

Discuss how the whole issue of "resale value" is more a suburban than urban phenomenon.

How would this family's homemade "for sale by owner" poster fare in today's housing market?
"Every year I go to my mother-in-law's for thanksgiving and every year I swear I'll never do it again. But I always do, do it again."


Do you think holidays in 2010 are any less stressful than in the 1970's? What makes them so stressful?

Discuss the risk of experiencing "unfulfilled expectations" when extended family gets together for the holidays.

Are family traditions always as joyous as they are portrayed by the instigator? Does your family have any traditions that you wish would simply disappear?

As the men tend the children and relax after the holiday meal, what do you suppose the women are doing?

How do children view holiday gatherings differently than their adult counterparts?

Friday, November 5, 2010

"We really enjoy getting together with our friends to drink and dance. It's a wild party and we're having a great time."


Does this look like a typical gathering of young adults in Utah Valley?

How do 20-something friends typically socialize in 2010? How you do socialize with your friends?

What do you think constitutes a "wild party", as referred to in the caption?

Based on their facial expressions and body language, how does this couple feel about the success of their party? How might they feel about showing off what is probably their first home in the suburbs?