CNL 525 Topic 2 Influence Of Race And Ethnicity In Media Ana

Cnl 525 Topic 2 Influence Of Race And Ethnicity Media Analysis Work

CNL-525 Topic 2: Influence of Race and Ethnicity: Media Analysis Worksheet Directions: Locate and watch two pieces of media recorded in different decades (film or television) that show the same job, (e.g., a Police drama filmed in 1980, and Police drama filmed in 2010). Note the ethnicities portrayed in different careers/roles and answer the questions listed below. Include proper in-text citations for both media pieces as well as a reference note below as appropriate. 1. What are the names of the shows/films observed and what year they were produced? 2. What job was observed in the shows/films? 3. Which show/film had more minority actors? 4. Were minorities more likely to play primary or supportive roles? Is there a difference between the older and newer shows/films? 5. Did you see the use of any stereotypes? Were stereotypes more apparent in the older or newer shows/films? 6. Considering the ethnicities of the characters is there anything that is obviously different or missing when comparing the older and newer show/film? 7. Does it look like the media portrays the workplace in a way that reflects the diversity of the United States? 8. Explain how film and television influenced your interest in specific careers. 9. Based on your observations, does it look like minority children have enough positive role models in film and television? Explain why or why not. 10. If you wanted minority children to have a greater number of positive role models in film and television how could you encourage the media to make any changes? References © 2016. Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

The portrayal of race and ethnicity in media has significant implications for societal perceptions, career aspirations, and cultural understanding. Analyzing media representations across different decades highlights shifts in diversity, stereotypes, and inclusivity. This essay compares two television dramas portraying the same profession—police officers—in two different eras, examining how ethnicity and race are represented and what these portrayals suggest about societal progress and media influence.

Media Selections and Context

The first media piece analyzed is the television series Hill Street Blues, produced in 1981. This show was notable for its gritty, realistic portrayal of urban police work during the early 1980s. The second is The Chicago Code, which aired in 2011, offering a contemporary perspective on law enforcement in a diverse city setting. Both shows focus on police officers but differ in their approach to showcasing race, ethnicity, and diversity.

Portrayed Jobs and Roles

In both series, the central role of the profession is that of police officers, including detectives, patrol officers, and commanding officers. The main characters serve various functions within the police department, reflecting the hierarchy and teamwork inherent in law enforcement agencies. Observing these roles reveals the media’s depiction of the professional landscape within the police force across decades.

Ethnicities and Representation

The 1981 series featured predominantly White actors, with a few minority actors filling secondary roles, often stereotyped or tokenized. In contrast, the 2011 series presented a more ethnically diverse cast, with more minority characters occupying both primary and supportive roles. The latter also showcased a higher number of minority actors overall, aligning closer with the demographic realities of urban centers in the United States.

Role Types and Stereotypes

In Hill Street Blues, minority characters were often portrayed within supporting roles, sometimes perpetuating stereotypes associated with criminality or otherness. For example, minority characters were occasionally depicted as suspects or involved in illicit activities. Conversely, in The Chicago Code, minorities more frequently held leadership or prominent investigative roles, although certain stereotypes persisted, such as depicting minorities in confrontational or aggressive manners. Stereotypes were more prevalent and more explicit in the older show, reflecting societal biases of that era, while the newer show aimed for more nuanced portrayals, although not entirely free of stereotypes.

Differences and Missing Elements

When comparing the two shows, one notable difference is the depth of character development for minority characters in the newer series. The 2011 show featured minority characters with complex backgrounds and personal stories, an aspect largely absent in the older series. However, some elements, such as the depiction of systemic issues within police departments or racial profiling, were underrepresented or oversimplified, indicating ongoing challenges in media portrayals.

Reflection of U.S. Diversity and Media Influence

While the newer media portrays a more diverse workforce, it still falls short of fully reflecting the actual demographic diversity of the United States, especially concerning the overrepresentation of minority characters in criminal roles versus positive or leadership roles. Media influence on viewers’ perceptions of occupational opportunities and cultural diversity remains profound, shaping societal attitudes and career aspirations.

Media Impact on Career Interests

Films and television can significantly influence individual career interests by offering role models and shaping societal perceptions. Personally, specific portrayals—such as crime dramas showcasing police officers—sparked initial interest in law enforcement careers during adolescence. These portrayals often emphasize heroism, justice, and problem-solving, positively or negatively impacting career considerations.

Minority Children and Role Models

The representation of minority characters in media remains a concern. While recent shows offer more diverse characters, the minority portrayal still often lacks positive, multidimensional role models. The tendency to associate minorities predominantly with criminality or conflict can discourage minority children from envisioning themselves in respected professions, emphasizing the need for balanced, positive portrayals.

Encouraging Media Change for Better Representation

To promote greater positive representation, creators and networks should prioritize inclusive casting, develop complex characters beyond stereotypes, and portray minorities in leadership roles reflective of societal diversity. Media literacy programs and advocacy for diversity in storytelling can also influence industry practices and encourage more equitable representation.

Conclusion

The evolving portrayal of race and ethnicity in media from 1981 to 2011 demonstrates progress toward inclusivity, though not without challenges. While newer media portrayals show increased diversity, stereotypes and underrepresentation persist, indicating continued societal influence and the need for ongoing efforts to depict a true reflection of America’s multifaceted society. Responsible media portrayal can positively influence societal attitudes, career aspirations, and provide minority children with affirming role models essential for fostering diversity and equity in future generations.

References

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• Reese, S. D., & Nerone, J. (2012). Visions of Race in Broadcast Media. Media and Race Studies. Routledge.
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• Young, K. (2018). Positive Role Models in Media: Impact on Minority Children. Children & Society, 32(6), 512-522.