Talking a “Blue” Streak: Context and Offensive Language in Prime Time Network Television Programs

This study examined the context of offensive language heard in prime-time programs aired on seven broadcast networks in 2001. Offensive words occurred more in the 9–10 p.m. hour. Situation comedies contained more instances of objectionable words than other program genres, but offensive language was...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journalism & mass communication quarterly 2004-12, Vol.81 (4), p.911-927
Main Authors: Kaye, Barbara K., Sapolsky, Barry S.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Aggression
Aggressiveness
Antisocial Behavior
Audiences
Behavior
Comedy
Fees
Indecent exposure
Language
Learning Theories
Networks
Offensive language
Pornography & obscenity
Profanity
Programming (Broadcast)
Radio
Scandals
Social Status
Socialization
Surveys
Television
Television networks
Television programmes
Television programs
USA
Violence
Citations: Items that cite this one
Online Access:Get full text
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:This study examined the context of offensive language heard in prime-time programs aired on seven broadcast networks in 2001. Offensive words occurred more in the 9–10 p.m. hour. Situation comedies contained more instances of objectionable words than other program genres, but offensive language was more likely to be heard in a non-humorous setting. Most objectionable words were directed at another character, and lead characters were more likely to curse than secondary characters. Finally, vulgarities were typically met with either a neutral or positive reaction.
ISSN:1077-6990
2161-430X
DOI:10.1177/107769900408100412