Abstract
Television teen series have become a social phenomenon in France among young viewers. Drawing on a survey, observations, interviews and an analysis of fan mail sent to the actors, this study shows how series are used as a way of defining gender identity for children and adolescents. The construction of meanings of characters and plots vary by the age, the gender and the social background of viewers. The relationship to series relies on individual emotional links and on collective negotiations through interactions within peer groups and family. Discussions about the programmes are a way to explore moral values and the ethic of relationships.
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