187523 Women of reality tv: A content analysis of stereotypical features

Monday, October 27, 2008

Phoebe Butler-Ajibade, EdD , Department of Human Performance and Leisure Studies, North Carolina A & T State University, Greensboro, NC
Gender role stereotypes in the mass media have been examined in previous studies. Negative stereotyping can influence acts of violence against women. This study assessed images of women in top rated reality television shows. Ten shows were content analyzed for (1) health behaviors (tobacco use, promiscuity, profanity) (2) violence and (3) interactions between women. Results indicated that images of unhealthy behaviors and violence dominated the shows. The women also were likely to mistreat other females in the shows. Because these shows are watched by young women in their formative years, they may influence healthy decision making. The findings are discussed in terms of their implications for studies of gender role development and violence prevention.

Learning Objectives:
1. To identify images of females on ten top rated reality tv shows. 2. To explain unhealthy roles of females on ten top rated reality tv. shows. 3. To describe implications of negative portrayal of women in reality television shows.

Keywords: Women, Media

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: research on media portrayal of women,
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.

See more of: Double Jeopardy: Multiple Discriminations as a Barrier to Health
See more of: APHA-Committee on Women's Rights