Favourite programmes and characteristics of favourite television characters: age and sex-related differences

The study analysed age and sex-related differences in the arguments used to justify choice of television show and favourite characters in a sample of 859 viewers (56.3% women and 43.7% men). Responses to the open questions posed in the CH-TV-01 instrument (Television Viewing Habits Questionnaire) were grouped into categories. In general, both men and women reported watching television as a source of entertainment, stating they preferred characters from comedy series, usually older male fictional characters. Nevertheless, some age-related differences were observed. Adolescents were found to prefer shows with positive, humorous content and infant or adolescent characters from comedy and cartoon series with no specific profession. Young people preferred escapist shows, while adults, in addition to these, also expressed a preference for game shows and news programmes. Both groups valued the professional nature of their chosen characters, who were generally adults or older adults. No major sex differences were observed, with both men and women preferring shows with positive, entertaining content. Women expressed a preference for soap operas and characters with positive social characteristics, while men preferred sports and cartoons..

For more information:

Medrano, C., Cortés, P. A., Aierbe, A., & Orejudo, S. (2010). Los programas y características de los personajes preferidos en el visionado de la televisión: diferencias evolutivas y de sexo. Cultura y Educación, 22(1), 3-20.