Although I wouldn't put anything past some of these presenters, I'm
wondering if the "hidden messages" aren't necessarily "subliminal" in
the sense that psychologists use the term but, instead, more along the
lines of messages of the music/video that aren't obvious or even
intended. For example, when talking about Disney movies, feminist
scholars discuss sexism and how Disney's heroines convey stereotypes.
The Little Mermaid (I know, now a Disney original, but it's how most
kids learn the story) gives up her voice--literally--and her family in
order to land a man (pardon the pun). Snow White and Sleeping Beauty
both require men to come to their rescue and kiss them (the Grimm
versions are even worse, of course). I could go on, but you can see the
point. The main message in the story isn't "women should be
submissive," but you might find that as a "hidden message."
Perhaps, then, the "hidden messages" in music relate to themes of
drug/alcohol use, smoking, sexism, or other themes of which viewers may
not be immediately aware. Given the DARE certification, I might expect
the presenter to discuss the way that many videos/movies make the
implicit statement that drug use is normative and, maybe, how weapons as
a symbol of power may not be the best message to send to kids.
Jeff
on 11/8/2007 1:36 PM Beth Benoit said the following:
I'd be as guarded as you. "Messages in music" sounds like that same
old "Satan is there if you listen to it backwards." And of course, we
all know how valid the research on "Hidden Persuaders" is.
On Nov 8, 2007 12:53 PM, <[EMAIL PROTECTED]
<mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]>> wrote:
A colleague brought me a flyer today that she received from her
daughter's school. The flyer is for parents to attend an
informational meeting about "Message in the music and juvenile
drug trends" It is a 3-hour seminar about weapons, music and the
hidden messages (she wants to know, "what hidden messages?"),
current drug trends, etc. etc.
--
Jeffrey S. Bartel, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor, Psychology
Washington and Jefferson College
Dieter-Porter 306B
724.503.1001 x6228
---
