We see you

Abstract

Imagine growing up knowing that it’s OK to be different, that everyone has the right to be loved, regardless of their race, gender, sexual orientation, age, or whether or not they are differently abled. ‘Finding love, being in love, being loved is the most human condition,’ says Prof. Brenda Murphy from the Department of Gender Studies at the University of Malta. In her recent research, she looked into the role of wellbeing and humour in shaping representations of couples in sitcoms. Collins Dictionary defines coupledom as ‘the state of living as a couple’. Shelly Budgeon suggests that coupledom is central to our society as it underpins the ideology of marriage and family. This leads to privileging sexual coupledom over other forms of relationships.