In her book "Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me?", Mindy Kaling expresses her disillusionment with societal perceptions of the nuclear family. She critiques an article that suggests a conventional family structure is flawed unless accompanied by unconventional practices, which misrepresents traditional values. This perspective troubles Kaling, as it seems to undermine the desires of many for a stable, loving family life.

Kaling laments that the portrayal of marriage and parenthood as outdated ideals causes a decline in their appeal. She yearns for understanding and acceptance of her aspirations to lead a monogamous, enduring relationship filled with love and mutual commitment. Her reflections reveal a deeper concern about how cultural narratives can affect personal desires and the embrace of traditional family dynamics.