The Effects of Television on African-American Children

Abstract

The effect of television on African-American children has been a topic of interest in sociological studies for many years. Three television programs that will be primarily focused on is TV shows, news, and commercials. This study analyzes how the lack of diversity shown on television can have a long-term effect on African-American children up until they are adults. It shows that all three programs either misrepresent African-Americans which often lead to negative stereotypes or represent African-American people in a way that isn't reflective of all African-American experiences. This study will be conducted through a retrospective analysis to determine what factors in these television programs play a role in the self-perception of African-American children. In all, the goal of this literature review is to shed light on the three programs that perpetuate racial stereotypes about African-Americans and how this perpetuation, ultimately, is the reason for the reduction in self-perception and self-esteem in the African-American community.