Prime-Time Representations of Female Federal Agents in Television Dramas. (December 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Garland, Tammy S.; Blackburn, Ashley G.; Browne, John A.; Blanfort, Candace D.
• Is Part Of: Feminist criminology. Volume 13:Number 5(2018)
• Page Start: 609
• Page End: 631
• Publication Date: 2018-12
• Subjects: women as professionals in criminal justice -- policing -- gender discrimination -- victimization -- popular culture; Feminist criminology -- Periodicals; Female offenders -- Periodicals; 364.37405
• DOI: 10.1177/1557085117693089
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1557-0851

Abstract

Television crime programs not only impart messages regarding the nature of crime and criminal justice but also aid in the creation of stereotypes regarding females working in law enforcement. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study analyzes a sample of prime-time crime dramas to examine issues of employment, discrimination, sexualization, and victimization within series episodes. Although portrayals of female law enforcement officers have improved, female characters continue to face issues of discrimination and victimization. The manner in which these messages may be cultivated and disseminated and what this means for consumers, especially women interested in law enforcement careers, are explored.