Types of Magazines: Domination of Specialization

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As television has commanded more of Americans’ attention, magazines have had to switch tactics to remain viable. General-interest publications have given way to highly specialized magazines appealing to narrower audiences that can be guaranteed to advertisers seeking to tap into niche markets. These narrow groups of readers might be defined by profession (CIO, Progressive Grocer), lifestyle (Dakota Farmer, Game Informer Magazine), gender (Men’s Health/O, The Oprah Magazine), age (AARP The Magazine, Highlights for Children), or ethnic group (Ebony, Latina). There are even specialty magazines appealing to fans of specific interests and hobbies—such as hand spinning, private piloting, antique gun restoration, and poetry. These niche markets can be categorized in a few broader areas of specialization.