Defining & Classifying Audiences

For the Mainstreamer; I think that the media text 'X Factor' would be most suited. As their name implies, they are the mainstream of society. They are the largest group of people within 4Cs across the world. This meaning they always have something to talk about. X Factor receives a lot of media attention whether it be tweets from a celebrity about a certain contestant or a revealed secret published in either a newspaper or a magazine. Such things reassure that the Mainstreamer is secure.

For the Aspirer; I think that the media text 'Vogue Magazine' would be most suited. Mainly because their core need in life is for status and they respond to what others perceive as being superficial, i.e. Fashion and appearance. Vogue is a very popular fashion magazine, which is purchased by a vast majority of people. It allows people a glimpse into where celebrities have bought their clothes from & how to look like they do, and so on and so forth. I think this text fits best with an Aspirer because as I've said their need in life is for status and they follow others and are not as independent.

For the Succeeder; I think that the media text 'Dragon's Den' would be most suited. A Succeeder tends to occupy positions of responsibility in society. When it comes to brands, they seek reward and prestige, and will often seek out the best. I think this text is a perfect example because the programme shows power, control and dominance; which a Succeeder can relate to. Their core need in life is for control.

For the Explorer; I think that the media text 'Most Haunted' would be most suited. Shows that are not as popular appeal to them because they seek out difference, and respond to brands that offer new sensations, indulgence and instant effects. 

B - In my opinion the categories are useful to a certain extent. The categories do define audience types, as they help us to categorise society. However, there will be individuals that may fall into more than just one. Personally, I do not believe that there are only 7 types of people in the world. People tend to range in characteristics, making it more likely that the majority of people will fall under just one category. In reverse to this, there are also individuals that fall into maybe two or more categories. Take for example; An Aspirer may enjoy watching X Factor and having a gossip about it with family members and friends. We cannot simply say that a person is targeted to one specific category.

C - The Big Bang Theory;

Name: Theodore.

Age: 19.

Family: Lives with his parents.

Class: E (Student)

Self Image: Intelligent, into sitcoms & supernatural stuff and also likes marvel comics.

Location: UK.

Religion: Christian, believes in human rights.

Education: University.

Politics: He is not that much interested.

Nationality/Ethnicity: British/White.

The programme displayed on TV at the moment is 'The Big Bang Theory.' The programme is an American sitcom, which centres on five characters who are all roommates. It is televised at around 7pm, suggesting that it targets mainly people in education such as University as they are able to watch it at night. It is also suggesting that it is for older people, not for those young in early education. It makes me think that it is targeted to a specific group in society; them being those who want to make their future worthwhile and good, and also the ones who are into sci-fi & stuff. I think the main target is teenagers, mainly because it is a sitcom and some may be able to relate to certain characters. I imagine this person being young, living with their parents and are able to sit down and have a laugh with their family whilst watching the programme.