Deaf Representation in Media
Faculty Mentor Information
Dr. James Pascali (Mentor), Idaho State University
Abstract
Deaf community members (“D”) or medically deaf non-community members (“d") are the second least-represented minority group in media. There is a pressing need for more research on topics involving D/d, specifically regarding the impact of media representation on those who identify as D/d.
The research study seeks to answer whether more inclusive media representation of the D/d can influence social support. If so, do accurate and diverse portrayals of the D/D increase societal advocacy for policy support for them?
The study will use quantitative analysis of existing data collected from scaled surveys administered to a random population using Amazon’s Mechanical Turk platform to evaluate the intersectional relationships, outcomes, and impacts of media representation on the D/d.
The data is expected to support the research questions, confirming that media representation that includes the D/d influences support for them. Moreover, the accurate and diverse media representation of the D/d will also lead to increased societal advocacy for policies that support them, thereby improving their quality of life.
This study's significance extends beyond the academic. By advocating for, supporting, and empowering socioeconomically disadvantaged communities, particularly the D/d, we can enhance their quality of life, improving our collective well-being.
Deaf Representation in Media
Deaf community members (“D”) or medically deaf non-community members (“d") are the second least-represented minority group in media. There is a pressing need for more research on topics involving D/d, specifically regarding the impact of media representation on those who identify as D/d.
The research study seeks to answer whether more inclusive media representation of the D/d can influence social support. If so, do accurate and diverse portrayals of the D/D increase societal advocacy for policy support for them?
The study will use quantitative analysis of existing data collected from scaled surveys administered to a random population using Amazon’s Mechanical Turk platform to evaluate the intersectional relationships, outcomes, and impacts of media representation on the D/d.
The data is expected to support the research questions, confirming that media representation that includes the D/d influences support for them. Moreover, the accurate and diverse media representation of the D/d will also lead to increased societal advocacy for policies that support them, thereby improving their quality of life.
This study's significance extends beyond the academic. By advocating for, supporting, and empowering socioeconomically disadvantaged communities, particularly the D/d, we can enhance their quality of life, improving our collective well-being.