Abstract
Purpose :
Oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) is a rare genetic disorder affecting ~1 in 17,000 globally, is often misrepresented in media. It involves reduced melanin production, leading to pale skin, hair, and eyes. Affected children endure many challenges, such as vision impairment (nystagmus, photophobia and strabismus). In some countries they can even face persecution. Harmful albinism stereotypes are prevalent in adult media. This study examines OCA portrayal in children’s animations from both Western and Eastern studios, focusing on visual impairments, to recommend ethical and authentic OCA representations.
Methods :
We utilized databases (MyAnimeList, IMDb, Fandom) for character selection (n=60) using criteria based on specific physical OCA characteristics. Two researchers independently assessed characters for OCA stereotypes (isolation, magical powers, vilification) and personality traits, using a 0-12 scoring system for overall negative/neutral/positive stereotype portrayal. Statistical comparisons employed two-tailed chi-square tests.
Results :
Of the 60 characters, 32% were villains, 63% isolated, 80% had magical attributes, and 43% exhibited exaggerated albinism features. One-third had visual impairments including: wearing glasses (33%), eye patches (28%), strabismus (28%), prosthetic eyes (6%), and blind (17%). Visual impairments were linked to negative traits (unintelligent/evil/comedic) in 67% of cases and positive traits (cool/empowered/relatable) in 33%. Overall, Western animations portrayed OCA negatively, with a higher proportion of villains (X2=6.24, P<0.01) and exaggerated features (X2=13.3, P<0.001), whereas Eastern animations showed more neutral depictions.
Conclusions :
Western animations tend to depict individuals with albinism as minor characters or villains, reflecting early Western folklore and cinema stereotypes. In contrast, stylistic colour-choices in Eastern anime often feature albino-looking characters, but their white-hair is linked to magical/cold personalities. Such tropes appear harmless but may perpetuate dangerous myths responsible for persecution and trade of “magic” albino body parts in Africa. The study emphasizes the importance of responsible media portrayals for OCA, moving away from harmful stereotypes to foster awareness, education, and advocacy.
This abstract was presented at the 2024 ARVO Annual Meeting, held in Seattle, WA, May 5-9, 2024.