Date of Award
6-2003
Degree Name
Master of Arts
Department
Communication
First Advisor
Dr. Maria K. Lapinski
Second Advisor
Dr. Mark P. Orbe
Third Advisor
Dr. Steven Lipkin
Access Setting
Masters Thesis-Open Access
Abstract
Prior research has shown that the media can have an impact on behavior, perception, and gender roles. This study examines violence against women in slasher films through the lenses of similarity theory and social identity theory. Both theories suggest we are attracted to others who are similar to ourselves. In slasher films, the final girl is depicted as a strong character that exemplifies many qualities viewers may see in themselves. Thus, it was hypothesized that as viewers' perceived similarity with the final girl the more they would like her character and the film. Results suggest that viewers perceived similarity the final girl. Additionally the more viewers perceive similarity the more they liked the final girl and the more they liked the film. Researchers also examined perceived amount of violence and whether it predicts liking of the final girl and secondary female characters. Results indicate the amount of violence and liking of the secondary female characters were negatively correlated, however perceived amount of violence and liking of the final girl were not correlated.
Recommended Citation
Sanders, Felicia L., "Evaluating Violence in Slasher Films: Similarity and Social Identification with the Final Girl" (2003). Masters Theses. 4199.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/masters_theses/4199