•A more refined representation or stereotype has been created through the media on people with disabilities, these are often accepted by the audience.
•However the ‘New Media’ AKA Web 2.0 has potential to change these stereotypes , as through these interactive internet services, for example blogs , they are given the opportunity to speak out and communicate with an audience which can reflect a more valid representation.
•From some basic research i have noticed that there are also many blogs created by the parent/guardian of a person with a disability, this may be a way of making people aware, or even a means of comfort and support.
•One blog that i looked at called ‘Living with a disability’ invites you into the life of Glenda Hyatt who is living with Cerebral Palsy. ( a disorder affecting body movement and muscle coordination caused by permanent brain damage.) Mainly, her posts are based around how her life is effected in having this disability and is also used as a way to make people aware.
•One quote that i can point out is after she explains how her hand spasmed when she was making macaroni:
"Life with cp is never routine.
Excuse while I go clean up the floor, yet again…"
This COULD support the 'Pitiable and Pathetic' stereotype , however reading on i have also learnt that she is very good at writing and expressing herself and that she also has a fine sense of humour ...but this isn't something that is portrayed in the media.
www a great start here, good to look at the ways in which WEB 2.0 technologies are influencing self representation.
ReplyDeleteebi Also make sure that you check out BBC Shout!