Kia ora koutou,
We all hear language from time to time that may make us uncomfortable. But what is ‘bad’ or offensive language can be hard to define. It’s subjective and may change over time as community attitudes evolve.
To help us track attitudes, we carry out periodic research on expressions that may offend TV and radio audiences. The BSA and broadcasters use the results to help ensure programmes and BSA decisions on broadcasting complaints reflect current community views.
The Language That May Offend in Broadcasting reportopen_in_new is one of the more anticipated pieces of research the BSA carries out.
We’ve just published our latest instalment, based on a survey of more than 1,500 people. Participants were asked for their views towards 31 words or phrases that may offend, such as swear words, racial and gender-based terms and blasphemy, including some te reo Māori and Samoan terms.
The results point to a shrinking tolerance for racial and cultural insults. The community is clearly saying it will not accept language that perpetuates racism.
At the same time, our new survey points to a softening in attitudes towards blasphemy and terms using the F-word.
Younger people are generally more accepting of offensive language than those aged 55-plus. However, they have less tolerance for words relating to gender or sexual orientation.
There are key cultural differences too. Pacific peoples are generally least accepting of offensive language. Racial and gender-based terms are the least acceptable to Māori.
The broadcasting context is vital. Offensive language is seen as least acceptable in fact-based settings with a host/presenter, in sports commentary, talkback radio, reality TV shows, and programmes before 8.30pm.
These findings further underline the value of audience advisories that clearly warn of language that some may find confronting, and of broadcasting at a time appropriate to the content – allowing audiences to make informed viewing and listening choices.
You can read the full report and a media release summarising key outtakes hereopen_in_new, but please do note it contains language some may find challenging.
Ngā mihi nui
Glen Scanlon
Chief Executive |
|