Task 3

Representations of Social Groups

How do different Television Dramas represent Social Groups and Social Issues?

 Conflict - What Dramatic conflicts are represented between Social Groups?

How do different Television Dramas represent Social Groups and Issues?
The portrayal of various Social groups and Social Issues within Television is usually Negative. In Television Drama, most Issues are used to make the content more entertaining. For example, in Soap Operas like Eastenders and Coronation Street, Social Issues and Community Issues include things like Pregnancy, Adultery and Crime. Secrets within the Community make the programme more Dramatic for the audience and make the viewer excited and wishing for more (the audience knowing something the characters do not is called 'Dramatic Irony'). Television Dramas present Social Groups negatively as many stereotypes of certain Social Groups (such as the working class or people of a different race) are quite negative.On the other hand, some Television Dramas, such as Comedy Dramas, present Social Groups and Issues in a more positive (or really, a less negative) way. Some Dramas present Social Issues positively, for example, the programme 'Pramface' is a comedy centered on Teenage Pregnancy and 'Grandma's House' is a comedy centered on Unemployment, Family Disagreements and Coming-of-age.

What Dramatic conflicts are represented between Social Groups?

Many Dramatic Conflicts between Social Groups are represented negatively and sometimes aggressively. In Television Dramas where there is an obvious difference between Social Groups, such as 'Waterloo Road' (Teachers and Students), Conflicts are portrayed as a problem that simply needs to be dealt with. In one episode, a problem occurs (whether it a problem concerning a Teacher or a problem concerning a Student) and the episode shows how both the opposing social group and the main social group reacts to this situation. Social Groups then have their own reactions, they can be angry and aggressive or confused and surprised. In some Television Dramas, such as 'Doctor Who' or 'Sherlock', the characters' react with enthusiasm and enjoyment and even have fun.