An Adaptation to American Society: The Influence of Social Norms & Roles on WWE Programing The broadcasting of professional wrestling on television has brought a strong media influence onto the American culture. The professional wrestling promotion, World Wrestling Entertainment, emerged with popularity in the American culture in the 1980’s. WWE was able to capitalize on the opportunities for growth presented in the 1980’s, for that decade proved to be an important transition era for television as cable television become more accessible and popular in home across America. Today, WWE has positioned themselves as a top promotion with an ever-expanding worldwide reach. WWE produces 8 hours of new scripted television programming on a weekly basis …show more content…
Hogan’s trademark red and yellow colors were worn by adults and children with pride. In the 1990’s, we were presented to a disrespectful and beer-drinking anti-hero in “Stone Cold” Steve Austin. Austin proved to be valuable asset for the company as he brought a powerful box office drawing power. Austin filled not only stadium arenas, but living rooms across the country. Lastly, in this millennium the face of the organization has been an endearing and honest character named John Cena. Cena’s signature ring gear of jean shorts, sneakers, and wristbands, has been emulated by fans as a support to his virtuous values of loyalty and respect. These larger than life characters became role models for generation that were exposed to television. I will explore WWE adaptation to a developing American Society with an ever-changing set of social norms and roles to meet a standard to it accepted to American views in today’s world. Below, are changes WWE had to make in order to conform to today American society principles, for the old method and content of programing produced a variety of role models that presented unsafe practicing of a sport, hazardous