Homer Simpson, a character on the TV show The Simpsons, has a wife who stays home to take care of the children while he works, but he is often responsible for disciplining the children when they are particularly bad. Even if this is all that you know about the show, you know that Homer:
A) is a symbolic interactionist.
B) can be best explained by queer theory.
C) contributes to the feminization of poverty.
D) has taken the instrumental role.
E) is, by definition, sexist.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Homer Simpson has taken the instrumental role, which traditionally entails providing for the family financially and being responsible for disciplining the children. In this case, Marge Simpson is fulfilling the expressive role by staying home with the children. The show does not necessarily reinforce traditional gender roles or contribute to the feminization of poverty, and there is not enough information to determine if Homer is a symbolic interactionist or if queer theory could best explain him. There may be aspects of sexism in the show, but this cannot be determined based solely on the information given.

Homer Simpson, a Character on the TV Show the Simpsons