Exploring the Portrayal of Social Taboos in Bangladeshi TV Advertisements

Abstract

This research examines how social taboos are represented in
Bangladeshi TV advertisements. Four advertisements, each addressing a
different type of social taboo, were selected as samples to reflect societal
issues. The study mainly employs critical discourse analysis theory combined
with quantitative content analysis methods. The findings show that all the
advertisements effectively highlight and introduce the social taboos that exist
in our society using different colors, symbols and background music based on
taboos. But some of them fail to convey proper message to challenge the
taboos and root them out of society. The study also notes a lack of
representation of rural areas of the country, while most scenes portray urban
settings. Finally, the study suggests a greater focus on solution-oriented
advertisements that raise awareness and encourage societal change.