It is fascinating how the media has such a tight grip on our culture’s thoughts and opinions. It seems as though one show after another, television capitalizes on adolescent girls’ vulnerabilities. In the 1990’s, 90210 declared that superficial, wealthy, and sexy were ideal female characteristics. Young female viewers looked to the lead girls in 90210 as role models, despite the show’s farfetched plotlines. Almost all of those viewers would never be able to look like that or spend money like that, thus the show depicted an unachievable reality. Shows such as 90210 and Melrose Place are a consumerist ploy and only hamper girls’ self-confidence. Modern shows, such as Gossip Girl and The Hills are reigniting these social obscurities. Blair Waldolf isn’t exactly a perfect modern day role model with her obsession for designer clothing and conniving ways. It seems as if Sassy magazine was on the right track with their balance of girly feminism. Their articles addressed essential issues, without trying to sugar coat things. And their useful tips were actually applicable in real life scenarios. The repercussions of the modern day media attack on adolescent girls are frightening to think about. One can only hope that more outlets like Sassy are introduced to point girls in the right direction.
I think negotiating the media and how it affects us is very tricky. I, for instance, am an avid fan of Gossip Girl. And of course I like to think that I watch the show with a "wink," knowing how superficial and, like you said conniving, many of the characters are, and at the same time knowing I would never want to act like that. But what really seeps through when we watch shows like this? When do the little things start to add up and shows like this begin to change us?
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