Media: Audience Effects Theory

Media: Audience Effects Theory 💬

1) Write a definition of a passive audience:

Open minded and exposed to Media but doesn't actively engage with content

2) Write a definition of an active audience: 

Engaging, interacting and take in lots of information; actively engaging with content.

3) Write a definition of the hypodermic needle theory:

Communication theory that a media message is injected into the brain and makes them believe

 
4) Write down a media product (e.g. TV show, newspaper or videogame) for each category of Blumler and Katz's Uses and Gratifications theory and WHY it fits that particular audience use/gratification. The first one is done for you:

INFORMATION/SURVEILLANCE: The Times Newspaper
 > Why: It tells audiences important information about politics, the world and more.

PERSONAL IDENTITY: 
 > Why: It can be relatable and shape our personal identity in lots of different ways

DIVERSION/ENTERTAINMENT: 
 > Why: Providing a distraction from the real world, to release the pressure of life problems

RELATIONSHIPS: 
 > Why: People develop relationships from media because we may enjoy watching certain celebrities, and more

Extension: To take this further, select a media text of your own choice, embed it in your blog and write another detailed paragraph analysing the audience pleasures in that product.

Extension question 2: Think about the hypodermic needle theory. Do you think most audiences believe everything they see in the media? Why? Explain your answer and try to argue both sides.