Changing Mealtime Rituals: the Mediating Influence of the Television on Family Dynamics

This research uses an interpretive research strategy and adopts a multi-method approach to explore the mediating influence of the television on family dynamics. A key theme that has emerged in relation to the meanings created around food consumption is the relationship between formal and informal environments, and how this relationship is mediated by the television in maintaining a shared family identity. We interpret this everyday mealtime conduct as not only indicative of the changing mealtime rituals, but also as an expression of intergenerational conflict over consumption values. The study contributes to our comprehension of how family identity is constructed around material objects, not purely because of their market values, but as a result of their post-purchase significance in the everyday life of consumers.

Citation:

David Pepukayi Chitakunye and Pauline Maclaran (2009) ,"Changing Mealtime Rituals: the Mediating Influence of the Television on Family Dynamics", in NA - Advances in Consumer Research Volume 36, eds. Ann L. McGill and Sharon Shavitt, Duluth, MN : Association for Consumer Research, Pages: 589-590.