Media Representations

Media

It shapes our perception of the world by portraying various aspects like gender, age, ethnicity, and social issues.

Construction

How a media text is assembled.

Mediation

The process media goes through before reaching audiences.

Selection

What is chosen to include in a media text.

Anchorage

Text accompanying images to provide specific context and meaning.

Stereotypes

Simplified representations of people, groups, or places using exaggerated characteristics.

Ideology

Ideas and beliefs of media producers reflected in their work.

Low Angles

Angle that make subjects seem powerful

Dialogue & Aceents

Influence audience perception (slang vs. proper English).

Layout & Design

Positioning of elements shapes representation (e.g., central character denotes importance).

Language & Mode of Address

Style of writing and tone influence audience perception (e.g., nostalgic language for an idealized past).

Visual Codes

Elements within photographs or illustrations contribute to meaning (e.g., clothing, setting).

Male Gaze

How men view women.

Young people

They are often depicted negatively, causing controversy and debate.

dangerous

British media portrayed young people as ________ based on a minority's actions, perpetuating an unfair stereotype.

Comedic Stereotypes

Comedies like "Little Britain" use young characters like Vicky Pollard to represent them as uneducated and lower class through clothing, speech, and language.

stereotypes

Consider adding a section on positive representations that challenge ______, showcasing young people in everyday situations demonstrating intelligence, ambition, or social awareness.

Anti-Aging Products

Adverts frame aging as a problem to be combated or reversed.

Airbrushing & Manipulation

Images of older women are often altered to remove wrinkles and other signs of age.

Body Image Concerns

Fashion media and some TV shows are criticized for portraying a narrow beauty standard: white, thin, and flawless. This unrealistic portrayal can pressure young people to conform to an image potentially altered by technology.

Unrealistic Beauty Ads

Beauty and anti-aging product advertisements are often seen as misleading. For example, ads featuring celebrities were banned for misrepresenting the effectiveness of the products.

advertisements

As a result of complaints, many _________ must now disclose if images have been digitally altered or if models use cosmetic enhancements.

Race

Ethnicity is cultural (traditions, language, beliefs) while ____ is based on perceived physical characteristics (skin color).

Underrepresentation

The UK's ethnic diversity is missing from media like TV, film, and magazines. Non-white ethnicities are often underrepresented.

Juxtaposition

The act of placing contrasting elements side-by-side, is a powerful tool in television for creating comedic or dramatic effect, particularly when exploring national or regional identities.

Humor

Shows like "Doc Martin" and "Gavin and Stacey" use juxtaposition for _____

misleading

While stereotypes can sometimes be harmless, they paint an inaccurate picture of a place and its people. This can be _______ for audiences who rely solely on these portrayals to form their understanding.

Katniss Everdeen

In a case study of The Hunger Games, she is an example of a character that subverts stereotypes

feminine interests

Representations have evolved with the rise of the "new man" who embraces traditionally __________ like fashion and fitness.

"tough guy"

Shows like "The Big Bang Theory" present geeky, intellectual men who defy the _______ stereotype