Violence in the Media

Grade 12Sociology

Review: Four explanations of Violence

Biology and aggression and violence

How do Psychologists explain aggression and violence

How do Sociologists explain aggression and violence

How do Anthropologists explain aggression and violence

Types of Media

Video Games Online Video TV Movies Newspaper Magazine Radio Music

*all of these things can be online or not

Does media violence increase societal violence and aggression?

In the USA (2005): Children, ages 8 to 18, spend more time (44.5 hours per week- 61/2 hours daily) in front of computer, television, and game screens than any other activity in their lives except sleeping

In an older study it was estimated that the average 18 year old in the USA will have witnessed 200 000 violent acts by that age.

Does media violence increase societal violence and aggression?

Are we being socialized to have new norms regarding violence?

In other words are people becoming desensitized to violence because of exposure?

People model aggressive attitudes and violence form media, but is their really a direct link between the two? The evidence is still unclear Lots of biased information on the internet

Does media violence increase societal violence and aggression?

Violence is glorified

Characters committing violent acts on TV or in Video games are often “Heroes” with attractive characteristics.

Realistic consequences of violence are often not portrayed

State sponsored violence (war) is often glorified by trustworthy news agencies

But….Violence is also attractive

Violence piques our interest. Violent movies sell Violent video games sell Violence in the news gets attention

I would like you to think about why people are fascinate by violence.

(think quietly for a few moments)