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 talks about how the violent content has influenced players to be aggressive suggesting that the media is the main cause for audience behaviours and that they are passive.

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 suggests that because he is playing violent video games his behaviour is then going to be anti-social as he is influenced by the game. People may criticise this as it doesn’t consider other factors like how he was raised and solely blames it on the game.

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

I believe that it is outdated as people can search things up and do their own research rather than believing a single source of media.

Two-step flow model

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

The news is filtered by opinion leaders (people who influence our opinions) and share their interpretation for us to take in.

2) How do celebrities like Taylor Swift fit into the two-step flow model? 

They share news in their own opinions which we as an audience receive and take in.

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

I think it is as opinion leaders aren't just influencers but also politicians which form a big part of our opinions and perspective.

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: Love Island - You can choose your favourite people and vote for them

Personal Identity: His Dark Materials - Diverse cast makes it easier to identify with characters

Surveillance: Sky News - Keep up with what's happening around the world

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?
 

I agree because audiences rely a lot on AI to provide information on the news.

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?

I think it has made people more dependent as information is now easily accessible which can be a problem as false information can be spread without any question.

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? What is your average screentime and how does this impact on your mood?

I think it has has a positive impact on me as the internet makes it easier to communicate with friends and access educational things to help with my learning at school.