A content analysis of the frequency of fat talk in Walt Disney animation films (1937–2021)
ISSN: 0965-4283
Article publication date: 19 March 2024
Issue publication date: 6 June 2024
Abstract
Purpose
Previous research demonstrates a consistent association between the media and body and eating related issues in children. Recent research has highlighted a role for “fat talk” to describe discourses around body size and food. One key source of media information is Disney animation films, yet to date no research study has explored the verbal content of this genre.
Design/methodology/approach
The present study used a content analysis to examine fat talk in Disney animation films (1937–2021; n = 53) with a focus on the frequency of fat talk, changes over time and differences between the genders and heroic statuses of the givers and receivers of fat talk. Fat talk was defined as relating to both body size and food and could be either positive or negative.
Findings
Results revealed that there was more negative than positive fat talk per film; no significant changes over time; males were the givers of significantly more positive and negative fat talk than females and were also the receivers of more negative fat talk; good characters were the givers and receivers of more positive and negative fat talk and more self-directed negative fat talk than bad characters.
Practical implications
The results are discussed in terms of possible legislation and parenting interventions to minimise the harm of this genre on young children.
Originality/value
Disney animation films may not be as benign as often thought.
Keywords
Citation
Ogden, J. and Chohan, A. (2024), "A content analysis of the frequency of fat talk in Walt Disney animation films (1937–2021)", Health Education, Vol. 124 No. 1/2, pp. 38-48. https://doi.org/10.1108/HE-01-2023-0007
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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