Year 9 Media - Unit 2

1. Teenagers & Stereotypes
A case study

2. Richard Dyer - 1979
 Many of the debates and critical approaches to
representation focus upon stereotypes, which, according to
Dyer (1979), involve a number of processes:
 The complexity and variety of a group is reduced to few
characteristics
 An exaggerated version of these characteristics is applied to
everyone in the group as if they are an essential element of all
members of the social group
 These characteristics are represented in the media through
media language

3. Stereotyping – theoretical perspective
 Stereotyping can be seen to exaggerate difference and in
doing so may increase antagonisms between
groups .
 A problem with the media’s use of stereotypes is its
selectivity , as it conveys values and assumptions that may
help construct the audience’s perception of the world and
consequently their behaviour.
 It is important to note that the media does not invent
stereotypes, but by repeatedly using them, media can be
accused of reinforcing certain values and assumptions.

4. Stereotyping – theoretical perspective
 It can be argued that it is not the media’s use of stereotypes
that is problematic but the audience’s assumption
that this representation can be applied to all
members of a particular group .

5. Stereotyping – theoretical perspective
 Consider how the stereotypes are constructed with
reference to…
 clothing
 body language or mannerisms
 décor of habitat
 location
 accent or language
 music
 Relationships
 lifestyle.

6. Stereotyping – theoretical perspective
 Task 2 : Analyse the following extracts in terms of how the
stereotypes are constructed. Remember to detail your
response.
 Text 1 : Kevin theTeenager – Harry Enfield and Chums
 Text 2:Vicky Pollard – Little Britain
 Text 3 : Lauren –The CatherineTate Show

7. Text 1 : Kevin the Teenager – Harry
Enfield and Chums
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lqm8JGnSshE

9. Text 2:Vicky Pollard – Little Britain

10. Text 3 : Lauren –The CatherineTate Show