摘要：AbstractIntroductionIndividual attitudes and more general attitudes in society can negatively influencethe functioning and participation of people with communication disorders according to the WorldHealth Organisation's (WHO) International Framework of Functioning, Disability, and Health(ICF) (2002). Much research has indicated that the public hold negative, stereotyped viewsregarding stuttering and people who stutter (PWS) – perceptions that are not grounded inreality. Some of the assumed personality traits of PWS included being insecure, shy,introverted, nervous and afraid (Klassen, 2002). This investigation was designed to determinethe presence of largely negatively stigmatising models of people who stutter in film media, andto discover if, in line with more positive portrayals of other disabilities, representations arebecoming increasingly positive.MethodThe study was qualitative, with quantification of qualitative data and use of descriptivestatistics of the study sample. 40 feature-length films were sampled, viewed and assessed bytwo coders, using thematic analysis – following the phases outlined by Braun and Clarke(2006). A search for themes in the data set took place through a process of inductive coding,and the emergent themes became the categories for analysis and discussion.ResultsOnly 3 of the films sampled were felt to show positive portrayals of PWS. PWS weremost commonly portrayed in a comedic role, experiencing low life satisfaction (relating toemployment, relationships and family situation) or as flawed in some way (socially, mentally,morally or tragically).ConclusionsThe core themes identified in the film sample confirm the largely negativelycharacterisation of PWS and stuttering. Some themes were in line with public perceptions, whileothers presented a more extreme or exaggerated view. No significant shift was found towardsmore positive portrayals. These findings show the importance of influencing the media topresent more humanising and balanced representations of PWS to counteract negative stereotyping.
