From classic literature to modern television shows, family dramas have been a staple of storytelling for centuries. Some notable examples of family drama storylines include:

In dysfunctional systems, people get stuck. The "Golden Child," the "Scapegoat," the "Caretaker," the "Lost Child." A complex storyline occurs when a character tries to break out of their assigned role. When the scapegoat demands an apology, or the caretaker leaves for a year abroad, the entire ecosystem collapses into chaos.

For the writers in the room: How do you plot a family drama that doesn't feel like a soap opera?