The Importance of Representation in Teen and Children's Media
by Jasmine (Age 14) - Dunfermline Seniors Group
In 2017, only 2/10 lead actors in movies were of non-white heritage and in 2019 only 27.9% of protagonists in action films were female.
Being born in 2007 meant that by modern standards the tv I was watching did NOT have accurate representation.
So, what is representation and why is it so important to younger generations?
Representation within children’s media has always been a highly debated topic. “What is appropriate to show” “what is too much and what is too little”
Representation is simply acknowledging and including different races, sexualities, genders, disabilities and religions. It is also able to reflect to wider society at large.
I think it's also important to understand that as we have these conversations going forward that the comments by parents who think their children should not be exposed to this content coming from a place of love and fear. It’s important to recognize this and I think the less we debate and the more we talk and listen, the easier it will be to come to a conclusion.
So why has there been so little representation in the past?
In 1988, article 28 was passed by Margaret Thatcher’s conservative government, this prohibited the teaching of homosexuality and LGBTQ+ in children and adolescent tv. This was not appealed until 2003.
This meant that many people have not grown up with LGBTQ+ characters in their media, but why does this matter?
But not all representation is good representation
“Researchers have found that prolonged television exposure predicts a decrease in self-esteem for all girls and for black boys, but an increase in self-esteem for white boys.”
This may be because in 2017, only 2/10 lead actors in movies were of non-white heritage and in 2019 only 27.9% of protagonists in action films were female.
Stereotypes can be just as harmful as not having these characters present. For example, depictions of Latino men as violent has led to an increased wave of abuse as these ideas were perpetuated. When creating a character, aim to investigate their heritage and make sure that you are not just pushing these beliefs subconsciously.
Examples of good representation today for teens and adolescents-
(Here are three of my favorites. None of these are perfect but I do think that their representation is great)
She-Ra is one of my all time, it follows a girl named Adora who has the ability to become the mythical superhero She-Ra. Adora is forced to unite all the princesses of the land to fight against the evil Lord Hordak. So many things can be said about this show, I love the fact that the representation is normalized as we see these characters of varying races and genders coming together. Its LGBT representation is brilliant and overall, I would recommend.
(Currently on Netflix)
Read our Reviews HERE
Have you seen it?...
Owl house was made in 2022 and follows Luz Noceda (a Dominican- American girl) who finds a portal to another world and learns how to become a witch. This show is fun and wacky but importantly it has representation with people with different races and sexualities taking lead roles. Sadly, the show has not been renewed for a third season but seasons 1 and 2 are available on Disney Plus.
(Available on Disney plus currently)
Read our Reviews HERE
Have you seen it?...
And finally, a live action series! Written by Mindy Kaling, Never have I ever followed adolescent Devi who is trying to cope with the loss of her father and her new found crush. The show works as a fantastically funny comedy about teen life filled with friendship, love and heartbreak.
(Available on Netflix currently)
Read our Reviews HERE
Have you seen it?...
What are your favorite tv shows?
