The role of serial dramas in shifting gender boundaries for teenage audiences, in a conservative context

Abstract

The reception of serial dramas by teenagers is a fertile field for analyzing how symbolic gender boundaries are negotiated, in an environment with strong, yet contested social boundaries. Internationally, structural changes in production and distribution of popular culture have made multiple gender identities more visible. In addition, shifting values have made gender issues more salient. Nevertheless, social contexts remain conservative in many countries, with evidence ranging from opinion polls and populist parties positioning to political initiatives and gender-related crimes. Based on focus groups with teenagers and semi-structured interviews with high-school teachers, this article discusses the effects of international serial dramas on young adults’ construction of symbolic gender boundaries, against a conservative background in an Eastern European country. The results indicate that many teenagers have a different perception of multiple gender identities and gender issues, as compared to their relatives and other members of their community. This perception is directly influenced by their cultural consumption. Young adults have little or no opportunity to talk about gender equality issues within the family, at school or in their community. Some admit to avoiding discussing gender equality with both adults and their peers, because it is a controversial subject. Nevertheless, they are all aware of the main gender-related issues discussed worldwide, from women’s representation in politics to LGBTQ+ rights. The main source of information for these teenagers is social media and serial dramas on streaming platforms, and their cultural consumption is shifting symbolic gender boundaries towards more inclusive views.