Abstract - Vera Khodasevich

Although women have made tremendous social advancements throughout the 20th century, sexual inequality is still highly prevalent. With media being such a big part of our society, it is important to study what messages media outlets are sending. Since airing its first episode in 1997 South Park became a cult hit earning a fan base that spans all age groups. That being the case, by studying South Park an idea of the gender role messages society is receiving begins to form. Through careful examination of episodes, the feature-length film, and reading previous gender role studies, I was able to conclude that South Park sends out the message that women are inadequate at their roles in society. The main females on the show include an activist who constantly loses sight of her battles, a feminist who gets breast implants, and a Mayor who makes no decisions. The female’s constant failures and characteristic discrepancies, in addition to the great lack of character development further suggest South Park’s message of women being inadequate. Although this study certainly doesn’t correct the gender role issues society faces today, recognizing the problem, as well as pointing out a specific outlet that is providing this message to the public is a start towards change.

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