Stepmothers are stereotyped in more than 60% of films and TV shows, study finds

A recent study has revealed that stepmothers are negatively depicted in over two-thirds of films. The research, which analysed more than 450 hours of film and TV content featuring a stepmother character – including Cinderella, Snow White, Juno and Modern Family – found that 60% perpetuate negative stereotypes of stepmothers.

The most common on-screen portrayals depict stepmothers as bossy, strict, neglectful and manipulative. Furthermore, a third of films portray them as wicked, evil and cruel. A recent poll of 800 single mothers has revealed that this media impact has deterred 43% from dating as a significant many fear being labelled as the ‘wicked stepmother’.

Dr Harriet Fletcher, lecturer in media and communication at Anglia Ruskin University, who assisted in analysing the findings, explained: “Tales of wicked stepmothers stretch back as far as Roman times. Many of the familiar stereotypes originate from 19th-century fairy tales like Hansel and Gretel, Cinderella and Snow White.”

She also pointed out that these can have depictions can have consequences: “While fictional, these media portrayals have real-world consequences, influencing perceptions and creating challenges for women stepping into blended families.

“Studies have shown that these portrayals can impact women by shaping perceptions and expectations of the stepmother role.”

An overwhelming 77% admitted that this concern was ingrained in them from a young age due to shows and films perpetuating this negative narrative. However, the study did highlight that there seems to be a shift to portarying stepmothers in a more positive light, as modern films and TV shows now write them as kind, caring and beautiful.

“More modern TV and film portrayals are increasingly offering more nuanced and sympathetic depictions of stepmothers,” said Dr Fletcher. “The movie Juno marked a significant shift by presenting a normalised, positive and supportive relationship between a stepmother and stepdaughter.”

Off-screen, celebrities like Kate Ferdinand, Stacey Solomon and Frankie Bridge are helping to redefine the ‘wicked stepmother’ trope. According to the poll, 38% of single mums have been inspired by these stars, with 44% stating that their positive portrayals of blended families have helped change the narrative.

Furthermore, 47% reported that seeing more positive stepfamily representations in media has encouraged them to date again. Two thirds also believed expanding the family brings more support and love for the children.

The prospect of being in a blended family excites four in ten respondents, and almost half (45%) appreciate the opportunity to share parenting responsibilities. Encouragingly, 81% are optimistic about dating again, knowing their children are open to having a step-parent.

Sarah Louise Ryan, dating and relationships expert from Even, which aims to provide a supportive space for single parents to find partners who help them build a loving family, commented: “I’ve seen so many blended family dynamics beautifully unfold and gain acceptance in the public eye, especially over the last decade.

“It’s clear to see that we’ve outgrown the notion that stepmothers, and stepparents in general, are villains.

“With our study revealing that the majority of single mums in the UK feel more optimistic about dating again, knowing their kids are open to having a stepparent, we encourage single parents to embrace and celebrate the love, care, and commitment that comes with building a blended family.”