Kawaii Killers and Femme Fatales: A Textual Analysis of Female Characters Signifying Benevolent and Hostile Sexism in Video Games. Issue 2 (1st May 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tompkins, Jessica E.; Lynch, Teresa; Van Driel, Irene I.; Fritz, Niki
• Is Part Of: Journal of broadcasting & electronic media. Volume 64:Issue 2(2020)
• Page Start: 236
• Page End: 254
• Publication Date: 2020-05-01
• Subjects: Broadcasting -- Periodicals; Telecommunication -- Periodicals; 384.54
• DOI: 10.1080/08838151.2020.1718960
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0883-8151

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Game developers potentially convey socio-cultural values about gender through design choices. This study interpreted the designs of 11 purposively selected female game characters, developed by studios located in the United States and Japan, through the lens of ambivalent sexism. This social psychological theory posits that sexism consists of hostile and benevolent attitudes about women. Two themes emerged across characterizations: bodies as objects, bodies as weapons and (in)dependence. Both consisted of empowering qualities paired with problematic beliefs about women. This analysis contributes to interdisciplinary literature by using an empirical perspective to interpret gender representations in video games.