Unveiling Female Confidence: The Influence of the Makeover Trope in 2000-2010 Chick Flicks on Adolescent Perceptions

Wardah Rahman

ABSTRACT

This study investigates the influence of the makeover trope in popular American chick flicks from 2000-2010 on the perceptions of female confidence among adolescents aged 14-18. The makeover trope, characterized by transformative narratives centered around physical and emotional elements, has been a staple in films targeting young female audiences; however, its possibly negative effects on shaping perceptions of female confidence remain unexplored. A mixed-methods approach was employed, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative analyses. Five top-grossing chick flicks from 2000-2010 were selected for content analysis, focusing on the frequency of positive and negative representations of the makeover trope in each film. For a quantitative approach, pre and post-experimental surveys were administered to female adolescents, assessing their beliefs regarding female confidence and the makeover trope's influence. The content analysis revealed a majority of negative representations of the makeover trope in the selected films, indicating potential detrimental impacts on young audiences. However, statistical analysis of survey responses did not yield significant differences in perceptions of female confidence between control and experimental groups exposed to clips displaying the makeover trope. While the statistical findings suggest no direct influence of the makeover trope on perceptions of female confidence, qualitative insights indicate a nuanced relationship. These findings underscore the importance of evaluating media portrayals and suggest a need for healthier representations of female confidence in teen-targeted films.

Unveiling Female Confidence_ The Influence of the Makeover Trope in 2000-2010 Chick Flick.

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