This thesis explores the multifaceted representations of addiction in various media with the aim of shedding light on the complex socio-cultural implications of these representations. Using an interdisciplinary approach that integrates insights from psychology, sociology and media studies, the research delves into how traditional media, fictional narratives and social media portray different forms of addiction, from the commonly discussed (drugs, alcohol, food) to the increasingly prevalent (sex, internet, technology). The study conducts case analyzes of notable media examples, including the animated series "BoJack Horseman," and the film "Nymphomaniac Vol. I." These case studies demonstrate the evolution of addiction representation over time and the various esthetic and narrative techniques employed to convey the destructiveness and emotional turmoil associated with addiction. Through narrative, textual and visual analysis, the work uncovers how media narratives shape public perceptions and understandings of addiction, contributing to either the perpetuation of stigma or promote empathy and awareness. By examining the cultural issues of meaning and content in relation to communication processes, this thesis offers critical insights into the broader societal impact of media representations of addiction. Ultimately, this thesis aims to provide a nuanced exploration of addiction representation of addiction in the media and to promote a deeper understanding of the pervasive nature of addiction and its representation in contemporary culture.

Representing Addiction in Contemporary Media

CHMIELARCZYK, MILENA
2023/2024

Abstract

This thesis explores the multifaceted representations of addiction in various media with the aim of shedding light on the complex socio-cultural implications of these representations. Using an interdisciplinary approach that integrates insights from psychology, sociology and media studies, the research delves into how traditional media, fictional narratives and social media portray different forms of addiction, from the commonly discussed (drugs, alcohol, food) to the increasingly prevalent (sex, internet, technology). The study conducts case analyzes of notable media examples, including the animated series "BoJack Horseman," and the film "Nymphomaniac Vol. I." These case studies demonstrate the evolution of addiction representation over time and the various esthetic and narrative techniques employed to convey the destructiveness and emotional turmoil associated with addiction. Through narrative, textual and visual analysis, the work uncovers how media narratives shape public perceptions and understandings of addiction, contributing to either the perpetuation of stigma or promote empathy and awareness. By examining the cultural issues of meaning and content in relation to communication processes, this thesis offers critical insights into the broader societal impact of media representations of addiction. Ultimately, this thesis aims to provide a nuanced exploration of addiction representation of addiction in the media and to promote a deeper understanding of the pervasive nature of addiction and its representation in contemporary culture.
2023
Representing Addiction in Contemporary Media
Addiction
Representation
Media
File in questo prodotto:
File Dimensione Formato  
MastersThesisChmielarczykFinal.pdf

accesso aperto

Dimensione 898.6 kB
Formato Adobe PDF
898.6 kB Adobe PDF Visualizza/Apri

The text of this website © Università degli studi di Padova. Full Text are published under a non-exclusive license. Metadata are under a CC0 License

Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12608/78786