Gender and Ethnic Role Portrayals: Photographic Images in Three California Newspapers

Abstract

Analysis of photographic images (N = 450) from the national (n = 253) and sports sections (n = 197) of 3 California newspapers indicated women and minorities were disproportionately represented relative to the California population gender and ethnic ratios. Female, Latino, and Asian individuals were disproportionately underrepresented, while black individuals were overrepresented. Women were most frequently presented as victims, while men were significantly more often presented in the role of rescuer or expert. Black individuals were most often depicted in sports and criminal roles.