LGBTQ+ Representatives in the Media

Why It Matters.

I mentioned briefly, in the introduction, that the media is a form of socialisation. But what really is socialisation? And why does that make it important?

Socialisation is the process in which an individual learns the norms, culture and values of society. It is what builds us up to make us who we are today. 

There are two forms of socialisation, Primary and Secondary Socialisation. Primary socialisation is learning the very basics such as walking and talking and the importance of honesty and respect. This is only really provided by parents and careers. However, the media can provide Secondary Socialisation. This is learning the more advanced norms and values such as the topic of being LGBTQ+, which is frowned upon in a few religions and cultures. 

The media is a very effective form of socialisation as it is constantly surrounding us and is almost impossible to escape from; as it is such a big part of society and our culture. We have proof that if effects many people, especially young teenagers. One example of these is people gaining eating disorders from being desperate to look like models in a magazine. They think it's not okay to look different to them, have a different figure, so they do harmful things to themselves. By only showing those models, it is as harmful as saying its wrong to look any other way. Because they are seeing that having that type of body is the only way to be successful. But this is commonly talked about and accepted idea in society - to have a diverse use of models. No one's saying it's wrong or a bad idea. However, they are for LGBTQ+ representatives. 

So you can see the media is very effective at socialisation, so by having more LGBTQ+ representatives, people will start to accept and see it is a part of society and that it's okay.