Media and Ethnic Stereotyping

Abstract

Media and popular culture often serve as sites for the creation and perpetuation of negative ethnic stereotypes. Social cognitive theory, priming, and script theory explain that repeated omission, misrepresentation, and trivialization of minorities in the media have important implications for identity formation and intergroup relations. Biased media portrayals influence how marginalized groups understand and negotiate their identities, perceived self‐worth, and belongingness in society. They also impact dominant group members' social judgments, racial beliefs, prejudices, and policy opinions. Media literacy education can help audiences recognize and critique ethnic stereotypes in the media. Furthermore, it can challenge and counter harmful stereotypes by promoting alternative counterstereotypes, participatory media, and positive storytelling.

Analysis of the Narratives with Characters That Make Ethnic Diversity Visible—Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir

“…In addition, it is considered that this way of representing cultural diversity promotes a perception of maturity in children of colour, making them visible as less innocent and more mature or even adult-like [40]. These narratives have the power to shape the identity of boys and girls of colour, as well as affect the perception that their peers have of these different communities [41][42][43][44][45], and can contribute to reinforcing negative ideas, such as that children of colour need less help and protection [40].…”

Popularization of Sexist Language in Celebrated Tamil Lyrics

“…Some people believe the media only affects others and not them. But media scholars claim most people's beliefs, personalities, and lives are shaped by media (Ramasubramanian, 2019). Gender claims are made in the media by some citizens and the media develops the expectations of what is expected for women and men in portraying the representations of society (Boden, 2016).…”

Perceptions of Minority Discrimination: Perspectives of Jews Living in Germany on News Media Coverage

“…To further estimate Jews’ perceptions of media coverage, we take a closer look at extant research about how the media typically portrays minorities and, more particularly, Jews. Broadly speaking, research on minorities has found that they are typically described as “the exotic other” (Ramasubramanian & Sousa, 2019). Numerous studies have shown that journalism on religious minorities tends to use negative stereotypes (e.g., Ahmed & Matthes, 2017; Cottle, 2000; Dixon & Linz, 2000; Woodbury, 2003).…”