Marginalized and sexualized: A content analysis of black characters in top-grossing films from 1990 to 2006

• In Event: Top Papers of the African American Communication and Culture Division

Abstract

Using social identity theory as a frame, the purpose of this investigation was to assess the demography and hypersexualization of black characters in 400 top-grossing theatrically released films in the United States and Canada between 1990 and 2006. The findings indicate that little change has occurred in the frequency of single speaking roles by black characters since 1990. The findings also reveal pronounced differences in the sexualization of black males and females on screen.

Authors

• Stacy Smith, University of Southern California

• Carmen Lee, San Diego State Univ