Sunday 5 March 2017

Identity and the wider media

Identity and the wider media



1) The Factsheet discusses how identity is a complex subject. What does it suggest defines our identity?

 Our identities come from the individualised experiences we have. We create a range of identities that change depending on the context we find ourselves in and our relationships with other people. 

2) Complete the task on page 2: suggest media texts that could reinforce that someone is non-mainstream; edgy; a pleasure seeker; fashionable; witty and fun; cutting-edge.


non-mainstream- Art house films... Donnie Darko
edgy-
 a pleasure seeker-
 fashionable- Fashion magazines like Vouge
 witty and fun-
 cutting-edge-


3) What examples are suggested for a case study on urban youth?


It is present in tabloid journalism, in BBC documentaries and in chat shows like The Jeremy Kyle Show on ITV. In 2008/9 when ‘chavs’ and ‘hoodies’ became a common moral panic (Cohen) in the media. Also, in films such as Harry Brown and Eden Lake.


4) What does Hebdige argue with regards to youth culture? 


Hebdige suggests that the the youth are represented by the media as deviants as they aren't part of this group, he also suggests that they are feared by outsiders to this group.


5) What other theorists are referenced alongside Hebdige? How do they link to the issue of youth identity?


Acland, Perkins and Giroux are used to reinforce Hebdie's ideas for instance reinforcing dominant ideologies.


6) How can we link our Year 12 case study on Ill Manors to youth and identity? What specific examples from the case study could be used to discuss Hebdige’s theory that youth culture challenges mainstream culture and dominant ideologies?

When Ed skreen gives his life to go back into the burning building to save the baby this shows him being courageous and not selfish although the rest of the film tends to reinforce the dominant ideologies especially in terms of clothing.

7) What does theorist David Gauntlett suggest regarding the media’s influence over the construction of identities?


Theorist David Gauntlett claims that the media have influence on identity construction and so the way the media stereotypes groups may become part of how individuals see themselves and media institutions are able to use this to sell their products. 

8) Do you agree that Hebdige’s view that youth culture will always seek to resist mainstream culture and challenge dominant ideologies?


I can see youth culture doing both as the clothing worn by urban youth can challenge these ideologies but to some it can be seen to reinforce them by continuing to dress in clothes that associate them with deviants and criminals. Especially after those involved in the London riots wore these clothes and was portrayed all over the news.

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