Critical Mirrors: Diverse College Students' Perspectives on Stereotypes Depicted in Popular Films About College Life

• In Event: 44.059 - Perspectives on Identity and Equity With Digital Media

Abstract

This qualitative study explored the perspectives of diverse college students on the portrayal of college life in recent popular films. Millennials often describe the U.S. as post-racial yet findings reveal incongruity along racial lines. Findings suggest that White millennials believe society is post-racial while dismissing stereotypes in popular media as comedic satire. Whereas non-Whites readily identify the influence of negative media representations upon their academic and ethnic identities. These findings are significant by exemplifying the need to promote positive representations of diverse college students. Findings reveal the need for critical media literacy education specifically aimed at helping young adults dismantle stereotypes in mainstream society. Such tools are instrumental in developing college students’ cultural competence and ethnic identities.

Authors

• Elena M. Venegas, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

• Lakia M Scott, Baylor University

• Karon Nicol LeCompte, Baylor University

• Toby Zhu, Baylor University

• Mia Moody-Ramirez, Baylor University