Audience Theory 1

Hypodermic needle model

1) The article links to the hypodermic needle model because it directly hits the reader with information and facts about how violent games cause aggression in people. The audience may feel that everything is said is true. It is written in a way that it is fact and we should all believe it. Also in the article, it says a university professor has compared the effect of smoking to playing violent games. When a reader sees this, they know that professors are quite intelligent so they immediately believe it and trust the source.

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

It links to the hypodermic needle model because it is the violence from his video game that resulted in him being aggressive. Consuming the violent content regularly, the boy has become an addict and "rarely leaves his bedroom".

3) Do you agree with the hypodermic needle model? Do audiences believe everything they see in the media?

In my opinion, I feel that as generations pass, less people are quick to believe everything online. We know not everything is true and also we use our own knowledge before believing anything put online.

Two-step flow model

1) Summarise the two-step flow model. In your opinion, is the two-step flow theory still relevant today?

I think that the theory is still relevant today to some extent. This is because many people look up to a role model and follow their every action. I feel as though some would be quick to be influenced to think a certain way because of a high figure of authority.

2) How does Jamal Edwards link to the two-step flow model?

James Edwards links to the two-step model because he could be a role model to others. They then would listen to what he says and act in a certain way. They may want to follow his path.

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.

Diversion: Harry Potter- People would watch this to escape from their own reality. It diverts their attention from the real world.

Personal Relationships: Friends- People love this show especially because of the emotional attachment they have towards the characters. They develop personal relationships with the characters. 

Personal Identity: Soap Operas(EastEnders)- People watch these types of shows to identify and relate to the characters. They can compare their life experiences with the characters.

Surveillance: BBC News Channel- People watch surveillance shows to keep up with current affairs. The news helps people do this and they are up to date.

Dependency theory

1) Do you agree that audiences have become dependent on the media?

I agree that audiences have become dependent on the media. People are quick to follow others and rely on media in so many ways. People use media as a huge distraction and without it, they wouldn't have much to do. The media is also there for people as a support system, they could break down without it.

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

Technology is always evolving and improves every year. People read newspapers or look for the weather section because people just get notifications on their phone. People depend on media so much. People get their information from online but it is not always true so people must be careful of that.

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?

Reflecting on my own media use, media is helpful in many ways like: researching stuff, receiving news notifications and expressing myself. However, a big issue is feeling like I have to look a certain way because of society's beauty standards. In addition to this, I spend a lot of my time consuming media. I feel that it is really unhealthy for me and also effects my mental health. There are positive and negative impacts on my health and wellbeing.