Humans are an influential species. The influence rendered specifically affects other humans. We are influenced by a variety of elements. History, popular figures, trends, and religion are examples of elements that impact on our society. Each of the fore mentioned elements are presented through media. The media has served as one of the greatest factors regarding influence in our society for a long time. The effects of media on society are both positive and negative and may be further illustrated through research.
In order to fully understand the effects of media, the term must be defined. The definition of media may be identified as the primary medium utilized for mass communication. (Dominick) Media includes various mediums. Television may be identified as one of the primary forms of media. Books, magazines, newspapers, radio, video games, and the internet are also forms of media. (Sparks) One of the fastest growing forms of media is social media. This includes websites such as Facebook, Youtube, Wikipedia, and Twitter. (Dominick)
[...] Croteau, David, William Hoynes, and Stefania Milan. Media/society: Industries, images, and audiences. Sage Dominick, Joseph R. "The dynamics of mass communication." (1993). McQuail, Denis. Mass communication theory: An introduction . Sage Publications, Inc Sparks, Glenn G. Media Effects Research: A Basic Overview: A Basic Overview. Cengage Learning Strasburger, Victor C., Amy B. Jordan, and Ed Donnerstein. "Health effects of media on children and adolescents." Pediatrics 125.4 (2010): 756-767. [...]
[...] (McQuail) In conclusion, the media has various effects on society. The term media includes television, radio, movies, magazines, internet and other mediums utilized to communicate with the masses. The effects fluctuate between positive and negative. Nevertheless, the media affects learning, violence, drug use, nutrition, and sexuality within society. Studies reveal that women and children are the primary demographic affected by media. Theories regarding the effects of social media vary. Therefore, the manner in which the media affects society is dependent upon the person asked. [...]
[...] The American Association of Pediatrics identifies the social learning theory as the cause for this phenomenon. Children learn by identifying and imitating the images displayed by media. Children experience roughly 7 hours of this influence per day. (Dominick) Several theories further illustrate the effects of the media on society. The Catharsis Theory identifies the positive effects of media on society. This theory suggests that violence displayed in the media helps people release their frustrations through the violence of others. (McQuail) The Aggressive Cues Theory opposes the Catharsis Theory. [...]
[...] The advertisements for milk illustrate this. Milk consumption increased once print and broadcast advertisements were produced. (Strasburger, Victor, Jordan, and Donnerstein) The media has a profound effect on drug and alcohol use. Drug and alcohol use is promoted in a positive manner through television, music, radio, and magazines. The negative effects of each are rarely mentioned through these forms of media. Studies have revealed that advertisements for alcohol have actually driven sales. (Sparks) The ban on alcohol advertisement in Sweden illustrates the effect that media has on alcohol consumption. [...]
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