CULTURAL ANXIETIES IN PRIME TIME MEDICAL SHOWSAmanda Steffens

Thesis Medical Shows Provide and outlet for

Americans to resolve uncertainties and anxieties over the issues of race, gender, and acceptance of sex and sexuality by resolving medical problems through technology

What is a medical show?

Main focus is on doctors interacting with one anther or treating patients

Can be any style

Medical Show Characteristics Non-medical show

Shows Used E.R 1994 Chicago Hope 1994 Scrubs 2001 House MD 2004 Grey’s Anatomy 2005 Nurse Jackie 2009

Respect for minorities with power

E.R. Grey’s Anatomy

Portrayal of Women with power

ER Grey’s Anatomy

continued

House Nurse Jackie

Acceptance of sexuality

Scrubs Grey’s Anatomy

continued

Nurse Jackie

Any Shows missing?

Over time the shows became more accepting of cultural issues

Introduction of more advanced technology and innovation seeing/understanding the medical body

Chicago Hope Why