Impacts of Media Violence

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer notes that mass media plays an important role in our every day lives. The writer then discusses that since violence is a 'staple' in movies and computer games and on television the question of how one responds to the massive amounts of violence portrayed in mass media is of great concern. The writer notes that there seems to be a consensus amongst scientists that violence on television and video games can increase aggression both in children and adults, although there is a minority of researchers who point out the limitations of the research conducted. The writer maintains that most research has shown that children's exposure to violence in the mass media can have short-term as well as lifelong consequences. The writer concludes that the violence shown in the media can be learned and copied especially by children, but how that violence is portrayed is also very important.

From the Paper:

"Studies have shown that children as well as adults by repeatedly and often watching violence on television may become less sensitive to the pain and suffering of the victims and others in general. This can make them emotionally desensitized towards violence in real life, and may decrease the likelihood that as they get older they will assist a real victim when violent crime occurs. Research done in this area has shown that people watching violent scenes on TV have relatively intense physiological responses at the beginning; with repeated exposure these are reduced.
"Viewing violence and television can also cause fear. This feeds a perception that the world is a violent and mean place, which can increase fear of becoming a victim of violence."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Freedman, J. L. (2002) Media Violence and Its Effects on Aggression. Toronto: University of Toronto Press.
• Grossman, D. & Degaetano, G. (1999). Stop Teaching our Kids to Kill. New York: Crown Publishers
• Kirsh, J. (2006). Cartoon violence and aggression in youth. Aggression and Violent Behaviour. 11 (6), 547-557
• Roberts, D.F. & Foehr, U.G. (2004). Kids and Media in America. New York: Cambridge University Press.
• Strasburger, V. C. & Wilson, B.J. (2002). Children, Adolescents, and the Media. Thousand Oaks: Sage Publications.

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