Televised portrayals of Hispanics:: A comparison of ethnic perceptions

Recent research has begun to recognize the role that mass media plays in acculturation. Equally important, however, may be the media's ability to influence the host society's perception of ethnic group members. Misperceptions by either group may inhibit or halt the acculturation and assimilation processes. As a first step to determine the degree of shared perceptions, the present study compared Hispanic, black, and Anglo respondents' beliefs about the adequacy of minority character portrayals on television programs and commercials. Additional analyses explored the impact of demographic and media use variables on these perceptions.The results indicate that there are significant differences in perceptions between ethnic viewers and Anglos. Minority group members were more likely to believe that there are too few minorities on TV. No significant differences, however, were found in the perceived fairness of ethnic portrayals. Among Anglo respondents, heavy TV viewing was associated with a greater belief that television portrayed Hispanics fairly, while among Hispanic respondents the opposite was true. Total amount of television viewing among blacks was positively correlated with the belief that there are too few blacks on television. These results have important theoretical implications for the way the media may effect acculturation and assimilation. Implications for advertising and programming practitioners are also discussed.     

Review Essay: Sex in Advertising: Perspectives on the Erotic Appeal and Measuring Up: How Advertising Affects Self-Image

This analysis argues that Grant Hill advances a critique of internal contradictions within Black communities; offers rival epistemologies of how to be Black, male, and an athlete; as well as connects concrete Black experience within an abstract museum setting. This examination grounds Hill's public statements of what he hopes to accomplish with the exhibition "Something All Our Own: The Grant Hill Collection of African American Art" within a rubric featuring theme, function, and quantity. Under examination are Hill's messages to understand the ways in which he seeks to demonstrate his multidimensionality and ability to transcend the one-dimensional identity position of Black male athlete.