The document discusses stereotyping of teenagers in media according to a 1979 study by Richard Dyer. It notes that stereotyping reduces complex groups to a few exaggerated characteristics applied to all group members. The media language conveys values that can influence audience perception and behavior. While media does not invent stereotypes, repeated use can reinforce certain assumptions. However, others argue the problem lies not with media use of stereotypes but audience assumption that stereotypes apply to all group members. The document asks to analyze 3 TV character extracts in terms of how stereotypes are constructed through clothing, mannerisms, décor, location, accent, music, relationships, and lifestyle.

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