Network vs. Netflix: A Comparative Content Analysis of Demographics Across Prime-Time Television and Netflix Original Programming

摘要

This content analysis examines how prime-time television and Netflix original programming represent and portray ethnicity, age, occupation, criminality, gender and sexuality. More specifically, this study provides an updated study from previous television research, comparing various demographics across multiple television platforms and genres. Findings revealed that there has been an increase in the sheer number of minority and female characters in prime-time television and Netflix programming, however, the roles in which these marginalized groups are cast is still less assertive and meaningful than those roles held by White and male characters. Overall, the findings in this study can be used to further contribute to current experimental and survey effects studies by providing important and updated background information about the quantity and quality of these television demographics across prime-time and Netflix television.