Media Cause and Effect
What are several ways the media has propagated veteran positive and/or negative social stereotypes?
James,
What do you think we can do to be able to properly depict our military on a day to day basis? We see a lot of "coming home" ceremonies, but what else can we do to take the "mystery" out what makes up the military and demonstrate the quality characteristics of our individual service members?
Garland Williams, Ph.D.
I think the news on returning airman, solders, etc. reflect a positive light by showing them as more family oriented unlike the movies!
Hi April,
You make a great point. So what should we do to counter that stereotype and what is the best method for us to highlight those that have made great transitions? I agree with you that the emphasis on PTSD creates an impression that all veterans are "broken" in some manner. But we know that the opposite is true. So how can we counter the perception and demonstrate that our veterans have huge levels of talent to offer corporate America?
Garland Williams, Ph.D.
Media has certainly had its hand in casting a negative light on the mental state of veterans rejoining the civilian population, specifically PTSD - I suppose that is more entertaining to watch/hear about than a smooth and happy transition. However, when this is the only image being presented and many civilians have no first hand experience to relate to, it is easy to see how such a stereotype could be believed.
