Date of Award
Fall 2021
Degree Type
Thesis
Department
College of Nursing
Director of Thesis
Dr. Rhonda Johnson
First Reader
Dr. Robin Dawson
Second Reader
Dr. Robin Dawson
Abstract
This is a concurrent, mixed methods pilot study that combines quantitative analysis and qualitative observations with the aim of examining the portrayal of childbirth in modern American comedy shows. 38 episodes airing from 2010 to 2020 (n=38) were analyzed according to objective elements of representation (e.g., location of birth, interventions employed, etc.), as well as coded for common themes. Quantitative data revealed that the most represented births in comedy shows on American television from the 2010s were vaginal (82.1%), in the hospital (69.2%), uncomplicated (66%), and represented technological interventions (66%). Qualitative analysis found six main themes: chaos surrounding childbirth; disgust for birth and the physiological changes in female anatomy; reliance on medical providers; lack of modesty and autonomy; futility of non-pharmacological pain management during labor; and dismissal of midwifery and doulas. Overall, these findings align with Robbie Davis-Floyd’s technocratic model of birth (2018). Further research should focus on how these representations on television impact the perceptions of nulliparous young women who want to have children in the future, as well as how birth is portrayed in newer forms of media, including TikTok and birth vlogging on Youtube.
First Page
1
Last Page
43
Recommended Citation
Smith, Emily, "Modern Representations of Childbirth in American Comedy Television Shows" (2021). Senior Theses. 481.
https://scholarcommons.sc.edu/senior_theses/481
Rights
© 2021, Emily Smith