Abstract

The current set of studies adopts cultivation theory and mediated contact to explore the relationship between viewers’ consumption of Jewish television characters, endorsement of negative Jewish stereotypes (study 1; N = 150), anti-Semitism, and support for Jewish-related social issues (study 2; N = 584). Study 1 revealed a significant relationship between viewers’ consumption of Jewish television characters and Jewish stereotype endorsement. Study 2 showed a significant relationship between viewers’ consumption of Jewish television characters and anti-Semitic attitudes; however, consumption was also related to viewers’ favorable support for Jewish-related social issues. Findings indicate a complicated relationship and suggest that the consumption of Jewish television characters may intensify negative attitudes, including stereotype endorsement and anti-Semitism, but the ethnic and cultural identity contributes to confounding feelings toward social issues. We offer a discussion of the results regarding media cultivation, intergroup contact, and the Jewish community.

Full Text
Published version (Free)

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call