“See me! Recognize me!” An analysis of transgender media representation

ABSTRACT The representation of transgender characters in fictional television has often been plagued by stereotypical and negative portrayals that do not accurately reflect the real experiences of transgender people. This research thus takes as its focus more recent North American television shows in order to assess whether improved forms of representation exist. Using a combination of Content Analysis and Critical Discourse Analysis, this study analyzes how transgender characters in Orange is the New Black and The Fosters are represented. This research found that the improvement of representation in these shows is indicative of a trend toward more positive representation. The characters of Cole, Sophia, and Aaron are represented in both positive and groundbreaking ways. While there is still work to be done in terms of increasing the complexity and range of such representations, these improvements signal a step in the right direction.