Conflict, Morality, and Human Interest. Frames Used to Construct Film Representations of a Person with Cerebral Palsy

Abstract

Introduction: Although social visibility of people with disabilities is growing, people still have little knowledge about them. Film bridges this gap, strongly influencing social perception of disability. As a universal language of our time, it does it most quickly and attractively; it addresses a wide range of topics in the boldest way. It appeals to both intellect and emotions. Therefore, it is crucial to analyse film material in various ways, comparing its message to research findings and verifying whether it is reliable, up-to-date, and consistent with current guidelines for portraying people with disabilities in the media.

Research Aim: Identification, description, and analysis of film frames for constructing an image of a young person with CP in selected feature films.

Method: The research utilized frame analysis, based on Palczewski's original theoretical model. This allowed for identification of film frames that describe the situation of the protagonist with CP. Interpretative media frames are schemas that organize reality, at the same time determining how it should be perceived.          
Results: The films analysed for the purposes of this paper were examined for presence of frames outlined by Palczewski. Study participants outlined the frames applicable to film representations of individuals with CP. According to the respondents, each film adhered to the assumptions of human interest and morality frames. In two films, the respondents recognised the conflict frame and one responsibility frame. Analogies were observed between the frames as well as assumptions of the disability models.

Conclusions: Participant responses, supported by examples of situations presented in the films, allow to conclude that in the analysed films, regardless of the time and place of their production, people with CP are presented partially in the context of the same frames. The characters are able to speak up for themselves; they are active and persistent in pursuing their goals. When comparing assumptions of disability models to descriptions of individual frames, certain connections and relationships can be observed. Media messages should be subjected to constant, diverse, and systematic research.