Research Article

Examination of Subliminal Messages Given in Cartoons, Example of “Rick and Morty”

Volume: 14 Number: 1 April 30, 2026
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Examination of Subliminal Messages Given in Cartoons, Example of “Rick and Morty”

Abstract

The aim of this study is to examine the subliminal messages in the animated series Rick and Morty in terms of obscenity, religious beliefs, and family relationships. This research is important in raising awareness of subconscious messages that may have negative effects, especially on children and adolescents. Adopting a qualitative approach, the study analyzes 11 episodes from the first season of the Rick and Morty series broadcast on Netflix using document analysis techniques. The data were collected based on the frequency, presentation style, and content of the obscene, religious, and familial messages in the animated series. The results reveal that the subliminal messages present in the cartoon are expressed in ways that may potentially affect sexuality, religious beliefs, and family structures, among other aspects. These findings suggest that parents, educators, and other stakeholders should take measures to protect children and young people from such content.

Keywords

References

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Details

Primary Language

English

Subjects

Values ​​education

Journal Section

Research Article

Publication Date

April 30, 2026

Submission Date

April 30, 2025

Acceptance Date

November 15, 2025

Published in Issue

Year 2026 Volume: 14 Number: 1

APA
Uçar, S., & Güven, G. (2026). Examination of Subliminal Messages Given in Cartoons, Example of “Rick and Morty”. Anemon Muş Alparslan Üniversitesi Sosyal Bilimler Dergisi, 14(1), 22-52. https://doi.org/10.18506/anemon.1688127