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'Inter-ethnic intimacy is on the rise in Australia, bringing an unprecedented level of ethnic diversity into our homes. Yet analyses of media representations of ethnic diversity have concentrated on the community level, neglecting the intimate sphere of family life. This paper explores the possibilities and limits of love within and across ethnic boundaries on fictional Australian television programmes. The results of a nine-week content analysis reveal a mixed picture. Inter-ethnic intimacy was regularly portrayed; but committed, long-term relationships across ethnic boundaries (marriage and co-habitation) were scarce. And although Australian television producers did not shy away from portraying physical intimacy across ethnic boundaries, emotional intimacy was often absent. Overt stereotyping of ethnic minority characters involved in inter-ethnic relationships was rare – instead, ethnic differences were downplayed or erased. Storylines were underpinned by the assimilation of inter-ethnic couples – in all their diversity – into the (white) mainstream.' (Publication abstract)
Publication Details of Only Known VersionEarliest 2 Known Versions of
Last amended 13 May 2016 11:17:04
34-52
Ethnic Diversity within Australian Homes : Has Television Caught up to Social Reality?
Journal of Intercultural Studies
Subjects:
- Heartland 1994 series - publisher film/TV
- Home and Away 1988 series - publisher film/TV
- The Secret Life of Us 2001 single work film/TV
- A Country Practice 1981-1994 series - publisher film/TV
- Breakers 1998 series - publisher film/TV
- Offspring 2010 series - publisher film/TV
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