Document Type

Student Research Paper

Date

Spring 2022

Academic Department

Communications

Faculty Advisor(s)

Dr. Matthew Telleen

Abstract

Survivor is an American reality competition show where a group of castaways fight for the title of “Sole Survivor” through a variety of challenges and tribal councils where members are voted out by each other. It is often called a “microcosm of our real world,” but how accurate is it? This research compares gender and four behavioral traits—affection, emotionality, independence, and competitiveness—to determine if gender stereotypes associated with those traits are present in Survivor. Previous research indicates that women are portrayed as more affectionate and emotional, while men are portrayed as more independent and competitive in the media. Previous research also indicates that television is influential in people’s perception of stereotypes. Through a content analysis of randomly selected episodes, results indicate that gender has no effect on the portrayal of affection, emotionality, independence, and competitiveness.

Notes

Honors Senior Thesis; Honors in the Discipline

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