Not only was Fran struggling with being ill, but Dan experienced mental stress as well. Having to almost experience a loss of Fran’s personality that he grew to love. Being diagnosed with Covid-19 causes physical, mental and emotional strain. Amanda mentions expert opinion stating that “sick or disabled partners may feel misunderstood or isolated” (Morris 2024). Not only will couples feel physically ill, but they will carry the burden of being sick and in need of care. Families change due to COVID and other chronic illnesses economically, mentally, and physically, and the dynamic within the family changes. The symbolic interactionist perspective can explain why changes like this occur, explained by its definition, “this perspective emphasizes that human behavior is influenced by symbols and meanings that are created by symbolic interaction with others” (Mooney 2021). Interactions with others influence how someone acts, it can influence the norms in their household or the way they act in relationships. The symbolic interactionist perspective “emphasizes that interaction with others has a powerful effect on our self-concept” (Mooney