This is my explanation and research on Stuart's Hall representation theory.
What is representation?
Representation is a depiction of an individual or social group.
What a stereotype is?
If the representation is repeated enough in media, it will turn into a stereotype. Stereotypes are generalized belief on a group of people, in other words expectations or associations, on that group's personality, role, ability, appearance, etc.
Why are stereotypes used?
According to this theorist, stereotypes occur in media because of a lack of diversity in the writing room or production, Stuart Hall believed that because of a hegemonic organisation within the industry of straight, white men, the media will reflect their idealogies and this is purposefully utilised to keep elite groups on top and the non-elite in their place to maintain social supremacy
What social groups are represented in the media?
- Race/Ethnicity
- Religion
- Gender
- Age
- Social Class
- Sexuality/LGBTQ+
- Disabiliy
