Patterns and trends in the representation of social groups

The Concept of Representation

  • Representation refers to how media portrays various social groups.
  • It does not only reflect reality, but also shapes public perceptions and understandings of these groups.
  • Stereotypes, norms, and ideologies play significant roles in the production of media representations.

Gender Representations in Media

  • Media often portrays gender in stereotypical manners, such as presenting women as emotional, dependent, or associated primarily with beauty and domestic work.
  • Men are often portrayed as independent, stoic, and action-oriented.
  • Such representations are being challenged more frequently today, with diverse portrayals showing women in positions of power, and men showing vulnerability.

Ethnicity and Race Representations in Media

  • Different ethnic and racial groups may be represented stereotypically, or be underrepresented or misrepresented.
  • Western media has often been criticised for representing non-white individuals and cultures through a Eurocentric or racist lens, often portraying non-white individuals as dangerous, exotic, or primitive.
  • Recent movements have pushed for a more authentic and diverse representation of these groups, often termed as the “decolonisation” of media.

Class Representations in Media

  • Working classes are often presented negatively, as lazy or criminal, whereas the upper and middle classes often receive more neutral or positive representation.
  • These representations can perpetuate classism, or the discrimination based on social class.
  • Media consumption habits also vary across classes. The cultural and economic capital possessed by different classes influences their access to, and usage of, various media platforms.

Sexual Orientation and Identity Representation in Media

  • LGBTQ+ individuals historically have faced stereotypical, dismissive, or invisible representation in mainstream media.
  • These portrayals can reinforce heteronormative ideas and contribute to homophobia or transphobia.
  • However, recent times have seen an increased visibility of LGBTQ+ characters and themes, although these representations are often scrutinised for their accuracy and depth.

Age Representations in Media

  • Young people are often portrayed as rebellious or naive, while elderly people are often shown as frail or isolated.
  • These representations can lead to ageism, or prejudices and discrimination based on age.
  • Recent efforts are being made to challenge these stereotypes and provide more nuanced representations of all age groups.

Disability Representations in Media

  • People with disabilities are often underrepresented or misrepresented in media.
  • When they are represented, they are often portrayed as objects of pity or idolised for overcoming adversity.
  • Activists and advocates argue for more realistic and humanised representation of disabled individuals that consider the diversity of their experiences.