Final answer:
Gender analysis often explores the portrayal of characters in media and their adherence to societal norms and stereotypes. Significant research, including from the Geena Davis Institute, indicates that media portrays women in limited, stereotypical roles, which impacts socialization and perpetuates sexism.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most common gender analysis examines how characters are portrayed by social norms and stereotypes, particularly in various forms of media such as television and movies. Research conducted by the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media, as cited by Stacy Smith in 2008, reveals that mass media is a significant agent of gender socialization. Often, women are depicted in less significant roles and when they are in lead roles, they tend to be polarized as either saint-like or malevolent figures.
A stark example of gender disparity in media is in children's movies where, in the top-grossing G-rated films from 1991 to 2013, nine out of ten characters were male. This type of stereotyping leads to the formation of sexist attitudes and reinforces cultural gender norms, as children as young as two or three begin to learn and become entrenched in such roles.
Feminist theorists argue that the consistent portrayal of women with a certain look—thin, white or light-skinned, and young—furthers stereotypes. Such stereotypes have negative implications, such as enhancing attitudes that are derogatory towards women. Studies show that representation in media influences societal views and behaviors toward gender, making it a critical area of study and discussion.