ABSTRACT
This chapter summarizes the major theoretical points of our position on the origins and implications of imagery and fantasy processes. Symbolism can be seen as originating from the attempted assimilation of material in the face of limited cognitive schema or verbal encoding processes. The orientation of the individual toward awareness and special attention to his ongoing inner processes plays a key role in the degree to which materials will be elaborated in consciousness and reassimilated into other the cognitive structures. Considering the increasing number of families where both parents work, children may be spending more time in the rather passive type of interaction possible with the television rather than in the situation of continuous feedback that characterize human interaction. Researchers increasingly recognize that the impact of television on development must be understood within the broader context of the family setting.
