The Paradox of PerfectionIn 1980, "The Paradox of Perfection" by Arlene Skolnick was published in Wilson Quarterly at a time when the "ideal family" was highly regarded. The article expresses the idea that the perfect family does not exist. This essay is a great example of how society views what a family should be and subconsciously influences the behavior and attitude of the average family. As a psychologist at the University of California, Skolnick presents her views through a variety of historical contexts and statistics. Skolnick ironically exemplifies through the media that the image of the perfect family is nothing more than a myth; in other words, he uses the media concept of family as a platform to convey his thoughts. Although the article was written more than 20 years ago, Skolnick sees plans for a future representation of society and how their representation of the "ideal family" remains unchanged. The essay covers a number of periods; a historical view to give background to the essay, a present view to elaborate his thoughts, and a future perspective to tie it all together. Through this process, the reader is able to follow and understand the author's opinions, which are renewed by historical evidence. Skolnick stated at the beginning of his essay, “Can the family be both a cherished “value” and a problematic institution” (paragraph 4) as a way of establishing its agreement. The statement essentially means that what was once considered the ideal family is now the main reason for the decline of typical families. Through a variety of metaphorical strategies, Skolnick is able to support his claims; the media and other image of the perfect family is an unrealistic model that the average family uses as a form of comparison. The author first addresses a general audience with her opening statement, which points to divorce rates, out-of-wedlock births, and presents a factual impression that captures any reader's attention. Even though Skolnick is a psychologist, she is able to express her opinions on an issue that appeals to the masses. I am able to understand and agree with Skolnick's arguments to a certain extent, as I have lived in two different cultures and therefore am able to appreciate his ideals. I can understand why the author believes so strongly in her arguments because it is easily evident that the American way of life is based on media output and a set of social norms that force the average man to behave in a certain matter.