*Disability And Media Flashcards
What does Barnes (1992) argue about mass media representations of disability?
They have generally been oppressive and negative
This includes a lack of representation as individuals with their own identities.
List several common media representations of people with disabilities identified by Barnes.
- In need of pity and charity
- Victims
- Villains
- Super cripples
- A burden
- Sexually abnormal
- Incapable of participating fully in community life
- Ordinary or normal
How has the stereotype of ‘pity and charity’ grown in popularity according to Barnes?
Due to TV appeals such as Children in Need
This has led to an increase in portrayals that emphasize need rather than ability.
What pattern did Barnes find regarding victims in TV dramas?
People with disabilities are 3x more likely to be killed off than able-bodied characters.
How are people with disabilities often portrayed as villains?
They are frequently depicted as criminals or monsters
For example, villains in James Bond films often have a physical impairment.
What does the term ‘Super Cripples’ refer to in media representations?
People with disabilities portrayed as having special powers or overcoming their impairment.
How does Hollywood visually represent impaired male bodies?
Often as perfect physical specimens in wheelchairs.
What does Ross note about disability issues in media?
They must be sensational, unexpected, or heroic to be deemed newsworthy.
What focus do TV documentaries and news features often have regarding people with disabilities?
They often focus on carers rather than the individuals with disabilities.
What assumption does media representation make about the sexuality of people with disabilities?
That they don’t have sexual feelings or are sexually degenerate.
What is the stereotype of omission as described by Barnes?
People with disabilities are rarely shown as integral and productive members of the community.
How does Barnes argue the media portrays people with disabilities?
Rarely as normal people who just happen to have a disability.
What problems do telethons create for people with disabilities according to Roper (2003)?
They over-rely on ‘cute’ children and do not represent the range of disabilities.
What is the primary aim of telethons as argued by Roper?
To alleviate the public’s guilt rather than inform about disability.
What does Karpf (1988) suggest about the role of telethons?
They keep the audience in the position of givers and recipients in a position of dependence.
