Critical Investigation

Are contemporary documentaries like C4's benefits street, providing a public service, or simply reinforcing negative stereotypes to generate a larger audience?

Can you deconstruct and offer an answer to the question?
Although it does undeniably provide a public service, the show overwhelmingly reinforces negative stereotypes to attract audiences. This is easily identifiable by the oversimplified characters and their traits. 

What is the stereotypical representation of people on benefits in the media? What would an alternative representation of people on benefits look like?
The dominant stereotype of people on benefits is typically lazy, unmotivated. Ultimately, there is a negative perception of people on benefits which is supported by the benefits stigma apparent in in Britain which has even 'put people off applying for essential benefits', according to https://www.theguardian.com/society/2012/nov/20/scrounger-stigma-poor-people-benefits. 

An alternate representation would be people on benefits, not because of being lazy, but rather because of being disadvantaged. An individuals external/internal factors may limit them and prevent them from succeeding. Therefore, a life on benefits is inevitable as certain factors have stopped them from achieving. e.g being disabled. We could also argue someones upbringing and family situation could also limit them. A person who cannot afford education may have to relying on benefits whilst looking for a job. So, in reality someone on benefits may be a persevering, motivated individual struggling to grasp success simply because of their situation.

Why does a stereotypical representation people on benefits exist?
This representation may exist to ensure 'balance' in society. According to Medhurst, the more powerful stereotype the less powerful. The benefits stigma is a prime example of this. Often negative perceptions of the poor are created so that the wealthy appear better.

Thinking about the wider content, what impact might this representation of people on benefits have on society?
Firstly, it impacts the amount of people applying for benefits, even if they are essential. This is noted in the referenced article. The negative representation causes stigma around benefits and demonises the people using them. This will lead to the marginalisation of these people, they will be seen as outcasts.

what key media concepts and theories could be covered in this critical investigation?
A mentioned before, Medhurst is a key theorist. Also, Stanley Cohen's 'Moral Panic' can be utilised as this issue is a good example of using moral panic to create a negative perception of a group in society. Moreover, Tessa Perkins, Dyer, Hall etc. 

what linked product piece could work with a critical investigation like this?
'The family' is one example of a product piece that works well with this critical investigation.