The Representation of Mature Adults in TV Commercials: A Cross-Cultural Content Analysis of Portrayals in Poland and the U.S.

Authors

Erika Grodzki, Lynn UniversityFollow
Kinga Kowalewska, Adam Mickiewicz University

Document Type

Conference Session

Publication Date

6-14-2018

Abstract

The researchers set out to examine the portrayals of mature adults (55+) in television commercials in Poland and in the United States. It is important to examine the portrayal of this group because they are a lucrative consumer market. Past studies have shown that is particular segment has been often underrepresented and stereotyped. A purposive sample of 15 Polish commercials and 15 U.S. commercials was selected since the researchers wished to focus on particular portrayals rather than analyze a large sample of commercials. Each commercial was examined particularly for the activities performed by the individuals, the social context, health status, gender representation, product/service type, and positive or negative portrayal. In the particular sample, the findings showed that older people play very different roles. Cultural values and differences were evident in the commercials. This could be seen in the content and focus of the ads.

Host

Tischner European University

Conference/Symposium

Language, Culture & Politics Association (LCP-A) International Annual Conference

City/State

Kraków, Poland

Department

College of Communication and Design

Comments

Presentation given at the Language, Culture and Politics Association’s annual conference at Tischner European University in Kraków, Poland.

Recommended Citation

Grodzki, E., & Kowalewska, K. (2018, June 14). The representation of mature adults in TV commercials: A cross-cultural content analysis of portrayals in Poland and the U.S. [Conference session]. Language, Culture & Politics Association (LCP-A) International Annual Conference, Tischner European University, Kraków, Poland.