"Redneck" Stereotypes on Television

Paper Summary:

This paper presents a definition for "rednecks" or "hillbillies," and proposes a qualitative case study to explore the way people feel about rednecks on television. The author hypothesizes that uncertainty reduction method is a plausible tool for reducing or eliminating stereotypes of rednecks and other social groups commonly targeted for comedy. The results of this study will prove helpful to sociologists interested in understanding how social identity is formed and why people hold onto negative stereotypes in modern society.

Outline
Introduction
Problem Statement
Background to the Problem
Research Questions
Literature Review
Stereotypes Defined
Effects of Stereotypes/Why Popular
Stereotypes in Television
Methods
Population
Data Collection & Analysis
Instrument
Results
Limitations
Timeline
Conclusions/Discussion
APPENDIX I

From the Paper:

"Despite knowledge that stereotypes in the media leave negative and lasting imprints on the minds of viewers, there is much evidence suggesting blatant misuse of stereotyping in the media. While the media is no longer allowed to support comments or television programs supportive of bigotry or prejudice, there seems to be a consensus that stereotyping of the population labeled "rednecks" is acceptable even if it is derogatory in nature (Booker, 2002). This paper will attempt to discern why stereotyping of this sub-population remains commonplace and acceptable in the media. The objective of the researcher is to find out if any new paradigms may be provided to eliminate the use of redneck stereotyping in the media."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Allen, I.L. (1990), Unkind words: Ethnic labeling from redskin to WASP. New York: Bergin & Garvey.
• Booker, K.M. (2002), Strange TV: Innovative television series from the Twighlight Zone to the X-Files. Westport: Greenwood Press.
• Brown, M.E. (2000), Bluegrass and "White Trash": A case study concerning the name "folklore" and class bias. Journal of Folklore Research, 37(1): 23.
• Darlington, Y. & Scott, D. (2002), Qualitative research in practice: Stories from the field. Crows Nest, N.S.W., Allen & Unwin.
• Giles, H. & Wiemann, J.M. (1987), Language social comparison and power. In, C.R.

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