The Ohio State University
3143 Derby Hall
154 North Oval Mall
Columbus, OH 43210-1339
Publications:
Mastro, D. & Ortiz, M. (2008). Media and communication theories: Implications for a multicultural perspective. In J. Asamen, M. Ellis, & G. Berry (Eds.), Handbook of Child Development, Multiculturalism, and Media (pp. 191-203). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.
Mastro, D., & Ortiz, M. (2008). A content analysis of social groups in primetime Spanish language television. Journal of Broadcasting & Electronic Media, 52, 101-118.
Ortiz, M., & Harwood, J. (2007). A social cognitive theory approach to the effects of
mediated intergroup contact on intergroup attitudes. Journal of Broadcasting & Electronic Media, 51, 615-631.
Mastro, D., Behm-Morawitz, E., & Ortiz, M. (2007). The cultivation of social perceptions of Latinos: A mental models approach. Media Psychology, 9, 1-19.
Quick Introduction:
Mass media and ethnicity
Description:
My research primarily focuses on the intersection between media effects and intergroup processes. Broadly, I look at how media messages influence individuals’ intergroup attitudes and how individuals’ group memberships influence their interpretations of media messages. I am particularly interested in portrayals of race and/or ethnicity in the media and how exposure to these portrayals influences attitudes toward members of other groups.
My research assumes that individuals are rarely exposed to a single representative of a social group in the media. Instead, they are exposed to representatives of different social groups interacting with each other. I examine the effects of exposure to these mediated intergroup interactions on individuals’ evaluations of others.
In addition to my research, I enjoy teaching courses related to media and stereotyping, as well as intergroup processes. In my classes, I encourage students to take an active role in learning the material and to draw connections between the topic at hand and their own lives.