Representations Definition – Media representations are the ways in which the media portrays particular groups, communities, experiences or topics.

Types of examples may be representation of gender:

Male Female

Aggressive Calm

Dominant Emotional

Protectors Recessive

Free Over sexualized

Provides Vulnerability

Powerful Talkative

Semiotics – signs and symbols

Stereotypes

Definition: Stereotypes are a form of representation in which groups of people are characterised such as their qualities they impose individually.

The media uses stereotypes because the audience will instantly understand them.

Stereotypes = visual shortcuts

Stereotypes are used very often that we now begin to think it is normal.

For example: punks are associated with pins in their bodies and Mohican haircuts.

Archetypes

Definition: Archetypes are a very typical example of a certain person or thing. Or an original which has been imitated; a prototype.

For example: Hero

Countertype

Definition: A representation that changes tradition

A positive stereotype

For example: a weak male character