1980's

The 1980's brought the strong conservatism to television. Shows were about family values and it also started to redefine the role of men in television. The Archie Bunkers of the 1970's were replaced by the wholesome Danny Tanners and Tony Micellis. The role of women as caregivers and domesticators seemed to change. While the glass ceiling was still apparent, women become more successful in the workplace during this era. As a foil men started to become more important in the role of the house. Shows like Who's the Boss and Full House showed men clean, cooking, and caring for the children. This role reversal showed new dynamics in the structure of the family and the roles of gender. This is part of a change in ideology of men having to care for children on their own. In the past if it was a man on his own there was always a female presence to take care of the home while the men worked. In this era it was more equal and the ideology that men are these strong figures who are not as sensitive changed to a more soft view on masculinity.