Negative images in the media and how they reinforce stereotypes of minorities, specifically African-Americans

Stereotyping is a mental activity that is neither natural nor necessary; however, due to laziness, upbringing or coincidental experiences (Chicago Tribune 18-52), the stereotyping of individuals results in harmful generalisations that ultimately deny an individual's 'unique contribution to humanity'. When the mass media engage in stereotyping, misleading representations concerning members from diverse cultural groups are confirmed. In this essay, a broad range of texts will be used to examine the ways in which the mass media construct and reinforce social stereotypes around gender, ethnicity and age, as well as how the media shape one's imagination though direct images. (Pimentel 25-78)

It cannot be doubted that the media profoundly influence people's attitudes and outlooks. They convey a whole variety of information which individuals would not otherwise acquire. Newspapers, books, television, radio, films, recorded music and popular magazines bring individuals into close contact with experiences of which we 'would otherwise have little awareness'. There are very few societies, (Toppo 11-36) in current times, even among the more traditional cultures, which remain completely untouched by the mass media. Electronic communication is accessible even to those who are completely illiterate, or in isolated areas of the world.

According to Juredini and Poole, gender usually refers to the 'behavioural and attitudinal characteristics' as well as roles that are learned and derived from a 'particular cultural milieu'. An important source of gender information in a consumer society is television. Despite some notable exceptions, for example 'Sesame Street', (Sing 12-50) most television shows continue to portray males and females in stereotypical gender roles.

In a recent study of television programs, male characters are more likely than female characters to occupy leadership roles and achieve them, as well as being portrayed as inquisitive. In addition, they are more likely to be portrayed in a recognizable occupation, demonstrating to audiences that males are more career orientated and dedicated to work, (Lee 10-25) and emphasising stereotypes that they are the traditional 'bread winners' of the household. Alternatively, females are cast into the role of the caregiver. Despite the fact that women make up a majority of the population, most prime time characters on television are male, and are still portrayed as powerful and rational. Women express emotions more easily and are more likely to be flirtatious in order to get their own way. (Chicago Tribune 18-52)

Similarly, in print advertising, women were seen to be in the home, being dependent upon men, and not making 'independent and important decisions', and are often viewed by themselves and by others as sex objects. In addition, the symbols involved in advertising often have a more profound influence on social behaviour than the stated messages the advertising wishes to put forward. Thus, gender divisions are often symbolised in 'what goes on in the setting or the background of a commercial', (Lee 10-25) rather than what it is explicitly selling. In many advertisements, men appear mentally and physically alert, while women are shown gazing into the ...