Adolescent sexuality is an extremely complex and controversial subject. Traditionally, it has been oversimplified by the tele-visual media, which generally conforms to dominant cultural moral expectations and is often favours the adult perspective. The decision for an adolescent character in a television program to lose their virginity is often presented in such a way that it prevents those watching from relating to it. The more complex psychological issues surrounding teenage sexuality such as gender preference and roles, and the moral consequences of sexual behaviour are barely touched upon. The occasions when issues of significance do present themselves, they only have 30-minute time slots to be resolved. Large numbers of teenagers surveyed indicated dissatisfaction with the portrayal of the subject in televised and filmed media, many suggesting a belief in the media's tendency to exaggerate the significance of sex in everyday adolescent life. However, the medium of television can also be utilised in order to communicate the complexities of adolescent sexuality.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer (TV series)
Trade paperback cover of Buffy: Season Eight Volum...
English: The entertitle of Buffy made on Paint.This is demonstrated potently in the post-modern show Buffy the Vampire Slayer, which attempts to convey the ambiguities of sexual morality without simplifying or condemning the issue.
Often, Buffy, the Vampire Slayer has been dismissed merely as a fad. Studies reveal that it is generally categorised along with a number of contemporary 'teen' shows as 'low culture' drama. However, its influence on the academic community and pop culture indicates that it is nothing short of a cultural phenomenon. The chief reason for the diversity and scope of its devotees' attention is in the versatility of the show and its unflinching resolve to tackle the more controversial teenage issues. As a result of the different levels upon which it can be analysed, coupled with the sophisticated appropriation of multiple forms of genre, Buffy the Vampire Slayer breaks the boundaries of high...