Media stereotypes and the dramatisation of sport

Overview

Stereotypes, dramatisation and sensationalism, the sexploitation of female athletes, unequal coverage, national pride and its dangers, racial stereotypes, controversy and coverage of disability sport.

What you need to know

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Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

1. 1

   How can sport perpetuate stereotypes through the media?

   Model answer

   Coverage can repeat fixed ideas about gender, race or disability. Repeated images shape public attitudes.

2. 2

   What is meant by the dramatisation of sport?

   Model answer

   Dramatisation is presenting sport as more exciting or conflict-filled than it is. The media uses it to attract audiences.

3. 3

   How does the media sensationalise sporting contests?

   Model answer

   Headlines exaggerate rivalries, feuds and controversies. Sensational coverage can inflame fans.

4. 4

   What is meant by the sexploitation of female athletes?

   Model answer

   Sexploitation is focusing on female athletes' appearance and sexuality rather than their performance. It trivialises women's achievements.

5. 5

   Why does unequal media coverage matter for women's sport?

   Model answer

   Less coverage means fewer role models, less sponsorship and lower pay. Growing coverage of women's football has helped to change this.

6. 6

   How can the media create national pride through sport?

   Model answer

   Coverage of national teams unites audiences behind a shared cause. Major tournaments can create a national feel-good factor.

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