PhD Candidate
smcoles@umich.edu
Education/Degree:
B.S., Digital Media, Drexel University, 2005
M.A., Mass Communication and Media Studies, San Diego State University, 2012
About
Stewart’s research examines how people develop their understanding of social issues related to identity. In particular, he studies the way media depictions of social issues and marginalized groups evoke prejudice and stereotypes, shape and activate identity, and influence public opinion and political behavior. He is especially interested in the political effects of entertainment media and how audience attributes affect whether people consider entertainment media to be politically relevant.
Prior to joining the University of Michigan, Stewart served for 10 years in the U.S. Marine Corps as a public affairs officer, and he has a background in public relations, advertising, and multimedia design.
Field(s) of Study
- Political Communication and Behavior
- Political Entertainment
- Media Effects
- Prejudice and Stereotypes
- Identity Formation
- Representation
