Audience theory 1: blog tasks

Hypodermic needle model

1) Read this Mail Online article about the effects of videogames. How does this article link to the hypodermic needle model?

It states that by playing violent video games it encourages aggressive behaviour. This links as it shows how the media is injecting this violence into people. 

2) How does coverage of the Talk Talk hacking case (see Daily Mail front page below) link to the hypodermic needle model? Why might someone criticise this front page? 

It shows that even children as young as 15 can be effected by this influence and can become addicted to these games. Due to this, this increases the amount of time they spend on the game which, as I previously stated, 'injects' these violent actions and is the ultimate cause of these crimes. Some may criticise this front page as not all people who play 'violent' video games will turn out to be like this hacker.

3) What do you think of the hypodermic needle theory? Do audiences believe everything they see in the media?

I don't agree with the hypodermic theory, as audiences have preferences and automatically form opinions.

Two-step flow model

1) Summarise the two-step flow model. What is an opinion leader?

This theory suggests that the audience is influenced by opinion leaders, who are the powerful and influential people in the world.

2) How do influencers like Zendaya fit into the two-step flow model?

She has greatly impacted the current youth generation as they look up to her as a role model. She has stared in many popular movies and TV shows which is how she became a known figure.

3) In your opinion, is the two-step flow theory still relevant today?

 Yes, to some extent I believe that certain people have power. Those who are famous are influential within the world of social media and we leave our country in the hands of politicians.

Uses and Gratifications theory

1) For each of the four categories, write about one media text (e.g. film, TV programme, newspaper etc.) that fits that particular audience use or pleasure. Make sure you explain WHY it fits the category and use images or clips to illustrate your points. The first one is done for you.

Diversion: Film - Blinded By The Light. Entertaining and offering escapism for fans of Bruce Springsteen or anyone that enjoys coming of age films or culture-clash comedies.

Personal Relationships: Soap opera - EastEnders. The audience can connect to characters and delve into each family's story.  

Personal Identity: Documentary - Educating Yorkshire. The audience may be able to see themselves reflected in these type of documentary's, especially if they are currently a student.  Surveillance: Newspaper - To find out about current affairs

Dependency theory

1) Do you agree that audiences have become dependent on the media? What evidence or examples can you provide to support your view?

To some extent I do agree with this theory. This is because many people use social media a source for information and without it we would have no way of knowing current affairs. However, the feelings that social media brings depends on person to person, how much they use it and what their purpose is. To assume that we are all effected by the media in the same way is too presumptuous.

2) How has the growth of new and digital technology in the last 15 years changed people's dependency on the media? Is this a new problem?

An increasing amount of people used technology as a form of media. I don't think this is an issue unless people are uneducated about fake news.

3) Reflecting on your own media use, how does your media consumption impact on your emotions? Does the media have an overall positive or negative impact on your health and wellbeing? Why?

I can see how social media can have a negative effect on people due to the technology we have now which can create unrealistic standards people feel as though they have to live up to. However, it can have positive effects and people are able to educate and publicise issues in the world.