Recognition and Respect Revisited: Portrayals of Age and Gender in Prime-Time Television

Analyzing prime-time programs from the 2002–2003 season, this study examined the recognition and respect afforded characters in varying demographic groups. Although Americans 60 and older constitute 18% of the population, findings indicate that such individuals comprised only 4% of major characters in prime-time television. Overall, up to age 60, leadership and occupational power increased with age. However, middle-aged males were more likely to play leadership roles and wield occupational power than their female counterparts.