Date Approved
3-1-2013
Date Posted
6-20-2013
Degree Type
Open Access Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department or School
Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminology
Committee Member
Paul Leighton, PhD, Chair
Committee Member
Gregg Barak, PhD
Abstract
The following analysis focuses on the issues of sexual assault, domestic violence, and sex trafficking in media portrayals. A content analysis was done on six film releases, two for each of the topics. Prevalence of myths, stereotypes, victim portrayal, perpetrator portrayal, and final outcomes/consequences were reviewed within each of the films, along with overall themes present. The content analysis results found that some myths are present and vary by category. The most common theme in the movies was the ineptitude of the criminal justice system to successfully intervene and aid victims. Another commonly occurring theme was that victims must escape their abusers individually, without the aid of social services or the criminal justice system.
Recommended Citation
Martin, Katie Ann, "Domestic violence, sexual assault, and sex trafficking in the media: A content analysis" (2013). Master's Theses and Doctoral Dissertations. 469.
https://commons.emich.edu/theses/469