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