While real-life female politicians like Hillary Clinton, Kamala Harris, and Nikki Haley inspire women to engage in politics, the impact isn't limited to the tangible world. Importantly, recent research suggests that fictional female lead characters in political TV shows can also be powerful catalysts for increasing women's interest in and participation in politics.
In the real political landscape, women's representation remains below parity, with only 28% of Congress and 24% of state governors being women. The U.S. ranks 86th globally in women's political participation. To address this gender disparity, researchers are exploring the role model effect, emphasizing the positive influence of women seeing other women in political leadership roles – whether it be on the big screen, the TV screen, or elsewhere.
According to recent data, this effect isn't confined to reality: it extends to fictional characters. The study examines characters like Alicia Florrick from "The Good Wife," Olivia Pope from "Scandal," and Elizabeth McCord from "Madam Secretary." These characters, though fictional, hold non-stereotypical political leadership roles, portraying strong and successful women tackling complex and demanding political challenges.
The science is simple. The viewers' connection to these fictional characters, known as parasocial relationships, is a powerful phenomenon. These connections persist beyond the screen, influencing viewers' political engagement. Two studies conducted in 2019 and 2020 shed light on this intriguing dynamic.
In the 2019 study, viewers of "Madam Secretary," "The Good Wife," and "Scandal" demonstrated stronger connections with the lead female characters. This connection correlated with an increased interest in politics, a sense of making a difference in elections, and greater intentions to participate in politics.
The 2020 study delved further, exposing participants to a political or family-focused plotline featuring a female lead character. The results showed that women who identified as more feminine formed stronger connections when the character engaged in political problem-solving. This heightened connection translated into increased interest in politics, elevated political self-efficacy, and plans for political participation.
Crucially, the studies emphasize that merely featuring women as lead characters is insufficient. The portrayal must depict them as political leaders, demonstrating competence in navigating political challenges.
Fictional television's influence on real-world political attitudes is a burgeoning area of study. Political TV shows, such as "Madam Secretary" and "Scandal," blend entertainment with thought-provoking content. Given the limited non-stereotypical TV content featuring women in leadership roles, these shows play a crucial role in shaping perceptions and encouraging political engagement.