Civilizing Prime Time: Gender and Conflict Resolution in the 2004–05 Season

Abstract

Using a sample of 129 situation comedies, dramas, and reality programs airing during the 2004–05 prime-time season on the broadcast networks, this study examined the relationship between the gender of storytellers and on-screen portrayals of conflict resolution. The study found that the employment of at least one woman storyteller was related to the more equitable use of conflict resolution strategies and more “civilized” conflict resolution strategies among characters.