What Is An American?: "Perfect" Family Life Image

[Evelyn Holy]

When I think of an American family, I think of the simple and happy family that was usually portrayed in early commercials: businessman father, stay at home mother, a good son and daughter. I'm not sure why. It seems like that was the ideal portrait of an American family, even though it wasn't true at all, since America is a collection of people from all over the world-like Mr.McCusker said in class, "Global rejects." I suppose the real image of the perfect American family should be anyone living well enough to be happy. What do you guys think?

Remember this show? The Brady Bunch? They may not be perfect, but they sure look happy in this picture. I don't remember much from the show, to be honest. Can anyone tell me a brief summary?

We've all come together in this huge display of a cultural mixing. You name them, they're probably here: the Polish, the Irish, the German, the Chinese, anyone! And when we come here, our lives aren't ''perfect'' like the ideal. Life is tough: you've got to learn a new language, you have to find a job and a home, and if you have a family, support them. Food. Clothing. America can be pretty overwhelming to an immigrant. I'd say a simple rule of thumb for a good American family would be something along the lines of having a sizable home for your family, a job that provides, education, and family togetherness.

Click here for a little spotlight on the image of a perfect family.

What is your idea of the ''perfect'' American family?

[Matt Sievert]

My family is far from perfect but I wouldn't trade them for any other family. And I dont think there should be an image or idea of a perfect family because we are all different.

[Justyna Chlopecka]

I think I know what what you mean , the immigrant family tries to uphold and achieve the "american dream" but that tends to differ form family to family and household to household.

[Nick Klein]

I think that the idea of the all american family has changed through the years. Years ago, it meant a large happy middle class family. Now with all the immigrant influence in America, I think that it has changed.

[Lisa Browning]

My friends call my family the "All American Family". We always don't get along but I guess to everyone else we seem fine and that reminds me of the Brady Bunch, I loved that show.

[micheal kiely]

Honestly my perfect life would have a great happy family. as long as my family is happy and loves one another that would be perfect!