The Importance of Intra-Family Conflict Resolution Strategies: Case of a TV Serial

Abstract

Among numerous information and skills intra-family conflict resolution is learned from television. While watching television, the audiences are relaxed and they have a chance to process the information and skills presented on TV. The present study seeks to analyze intra-family conflicts and conflict resolution strategies used by family members through most popular ever Turkish television serial Çocuklar Duymasin (Do not Let The Children Hear). The study focuses on the Uses and Gratifications (U&G) Theory to demonstrate how the audiences benefit from this serial when they have conflicts and problems in their lives. The study examines 50 episodes of the serial broadcasted in 2013. The conflict replaced and resolution strategies used by the characters are categorized in terms of orientations to conflict, conflict resolutions strategies and the topics mentioned in the dialogues. Data has been collected and recorded on the Content Analysis Checklist. Results show that female characters are generally more constructive and influential than male characters while resolving intra-family conflicts and problems during the conversations. In addition, the audiences are able to acquire information, gain support for themselves, learn about prominent issues and help others resolve conflicts because of the distinguished topics articulated in Çocuklar Duymasin.