Contradictory Messages: A Content Analysis of Hollywood-Produced Romantic Comedy Feature Films

Abstract

This study analyzed the romantic content of a sample of 40 romantic comedy films using a basic grounded theory methodology. Analyses revealed that such films appear to depict romantic relationships as having qualities of both new and long-term relationships; that is, to be both novel and exciting, yet emotionally significant and meaningful. Furthermore, relationships were shown to have both highly idealistic and undesirable qualities but for any problems or transgressions experienced to have no real negative long-term impact on relationship functioning. The potential for viewer interpretations is discussed and the need for future research highlighted.

Keywords:

• Adolescence
• Content Analysis
• Grounded Theory
• Media
• Romantic Relationships

Notes

^a Figures shown are correct to two decimal places.

^b Scores reaching a substantial rating and above.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Kimberly R. Johnson

Kimberly R. Johnson (BSc, Heriot-Watt University, 2007) is a PhD student in the Department of Psychology at Heriot-Watt University.

Bjarne M. Holmes

Bjarne M. Holmes (PhD, University of Massachusetts at Amherst, 2004) is a professor in the Department of Psychology at Heriot-Watt University.