4.4 Disability and age intersections with gender in television

Television often overlooks the unique experiences of women with disabilities and older women. This intersection of gender, age, and ability creates complex challenges in representation and storytelling.

Exploring these intersections reveals how ageism and ableism compound gender discrimination in media. By examining character portrayals and narrative arcs, we can identify ways to improve representation and foster more inclusive storytelling.

Intersectional Discrimination

Understanding Intersectionality

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• Intersectionality recognizes that individuals experience discrimination based on the intersection of their various identities (race, gender, age, ability, etc.)
• Intersectional discrimination occurs when a person faces compounded disadvantages due to the combination of their marginalized identities
• Addressing intersectional discrimination requires acknowledging the unique challenges faced by individuals with multiple marginalized identities
• Intersectionality highlights the importance of considering the full context of a person's experiences and identities when addressing discrimination

Ageism and Ableism

• Ageism refers to discrimination and prejudice based on a person's age, often affecting both younger and older individuals
• Ableism is discrimination and social prejudice against people with disabilities, based on the belief that typical abilities are superior
• Ageism and ableism can intersect with gender discrimination, creating unique challenges for women who are older or have disabilities
• Examples of ageism and ableism in media include the lack of representation of older women and women with disabilities, or their portrayal as dependent or incompetent

Double Discrimination and Stereotyping

• Double discrimination occurs when an individual faces discrimination based on two or more aspects of their identity simultaneously (e.g., being a woman and having a disability)
• Stereotyping involves oversimplified, generalized beliefs about a particular group of people, often leading to discrimination and prejudice
• Women with disabilities often face stereotypes that portray them as asexual, dependent, or incapable of leading fulfilling lives
• Double discrimination and stereotyping can lead to limited opportunities and increased barriers for women who experience intersectional discrimination

Representation in Media

The Importance of Representation and Visibility

• Representation refers to the inclusion and portrayal of diverse identities and experiences in media, including television, film, and other forms of entertainment
• Visibility is the extent to which marginalized groups are seen and acknowledged in media, which can impact public perception and understanding
• Adequate representation and visibility of women with diverse identities, including age and ability, is crucial for promoting social equality and challenging stereotypes
• Positive representation can empower marginalized communities and provide role models for younger generations

Tokenism and Diversity

• Tokenism is the practice of making a symbolic effort to include underrepresented groups in media, often resulting in superficial or stereotypical representation
• Diversity refers to the inclusion of individuals with a wide range of identities, experiences, and perspectives in media
• Tokenistic representation of women with disabilities or older women can perpetuate stereotypes and fail to address the complexity of their experiences
• Genuine diversity in media involves creating multidimensional characters and storylines that accurately reflect the diverse experiences of women across age and ability

Striving for Inclusion

• Inclusion goes beyond representation and diversity by ensuring that marginalized groups are actively involved in the creation and production of media content
• Inclusive media practices involve hiring diverse talent, both in front of and behind the camera, to ensure authentic representation
• Inclusion also means creating accessible media content and environments that accommodate the needs of individuals with disabilities
• Examples of inclusive practices include providing closed captioning, audio description, and accessible viewing spaces

Character Portrayal

Marginalization and Character Development

• Marginalization occurs when characters from underrepresented groups are relegated to minor, stereotypical, or one-dimensional roles
• Character development involves creating complex, multifaceted characters with unique personalities, motivations, and growth trajectories
• Women with disabilities and older women are often marginalized in media, with their characters lacking depth and development
• Well-developed characters challenge stereotypes and provide a more accurate and nuanced representation of diverse experiences

Narrative Arcs and Empowerment

• Narrative arcs refer to the progression and development of a character's story throughout a television series or film
• Empowering narrative arcs for women with disabilities and older women involve storylines that showcase their agency, resilience, and personal growth
• These narratives should explore the unique challenges and triumphs experienced by these characters, without reducing them to their marginalized identities
• Examples of empowering narrative arcs include characters with disabilities leading independent lives or older women pursuing new passions and relationships

Responsible Storytelling

Media Responsibility and Diversity

• Media creators have a responsibility to tell diverse and inclusive stories that accurately represent the experiences of marginalized communities
• Responsible storytelling involves conducting research, consulting with underrepresented groups, and ensuring that their stories are told with sensitivity and respect
• Diversity in storytelling means exploring a wide range of narratives and perspectives, including those of women with disabilities and older women
• Media creators should strive to challenge stereotypes and promote understanding through their work

Inclusion and Stereotyping in Media

• Inclusion in storytelling involves creating characters and narratives that authentically represent the experiences of marginalized groups
• Stereotyping in media often relies on oversimplified, generalized portrayals of underrepresented groups, perpetuating harmful assumptions and limiting understanding
• Responsible storytelling avoids stereotyping by creating complex, multidimensional characters and narratives that reflect the diversity within marginalized communities
• Examples of inclusive storytelling include featuring women with disabilities in leadership roles or exploring the romantic lives of older women