The Portrayal of Racial Minorities on Prime Time Television

Abstract

Abstract A one week sample of prime time television (8-11 p.m.) for ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC was constructed to represent broadcast entertainment programming for 1996. In a systematic content analysis/ the frequencies and attributes of ethnic minority and majority characters were documented, with particular attention to Latinos and their interactions with other TV characters. This study's findings update the current status of minority portrayals and identify prevalent attributes of minority portrayals that may impact viewer perceptions.