Academic Research

Soap Operas- Representations and Regulations

Use of Stereotypes

Stereotypes within soap operas are usually defined by their age, gender, race, religion, occupation, nationality, interests, music taste, fashion, etc.

Features of stereotypes include:

Simplicity- When stereotypical characters are portrayed they rarely have complex or deep personalities.

Second hand judgement- When a particular sub-group of people are represented and those who are behind the creation of the portrayal haven’t had first hand experience with the stereotype being portrayed. Therefore the people behind the stereotypes won’t be accurately represented, as the character’s personalities will be based upon mainstream interpretations only.

Invalidity- Many of the stereotype’s qualities could just be a downright wrong representation of the people genre.

Outdated- Once a stereotype is put in place it can often be difficult to change the image people have of them, unless the media deliberately targets that sub-group.

Legal Regulations for the Media

Race Relations Act (1976) – To control the way people of different races are represented.

Obscene Publications Act (1959, redrafted 1964) – To assure that nothing inappropriate or offensively vulgar is shown. (9pm watershed)

Representations of People Act (1983) – What political parties are allowed to show, and how much screen time they are allowed to use.

Public Order Act (1986) – To ensure that people of different nationalities are represented fairly.

Gender Discrimination Act (1986) – To make sure both genders are treated with equality.

Broadcasting Act (1990) -  Must ensure that all programmes broadcast are not offensive to the mass public.

Communications Act (2003) – Enforces that news is reported truthfully and in an unbiased manner. Also that public competitions are carried out fairly.

Regulatory Bodies

Advertising Standards Agency: responsible for maintaning standards in adverts and adressing complaints.

Press Complaints Commisson: fulfills same role but with newspapers and magazines.

OFCOM: main regulator for all of the communications industries.