Culture helps us make sense of daily life. Popular culture influences what we believe and how we behave. What is appropriate? What is necessary? What is desirable? The media helps forge our identities, telling us who has power and who doesn’t. Immersed in media from cradle to grave, it has provided a common culture for us. Thus, we must learn to understand, interpret and criticize it.

HOs are essential

For a long time, things were clear.

All big decisions were made for us. We have broken down this structure, creating a world of options and unprecedented freedom.

Who’s going to be the bread winner? Whose career takes priority? Who wakes up to feed the baby? Why get married? Who’s going to plan the next date? What gender should I be dating? Am I happy? Am I happy enough in this relationship? Who initiates sex?

We have to negotiate everything. It’s all up for grabs. Conversations have become the heart of relationships as we negotiate stuff our parents never had to think about.