Fundamentals of Media Effects

Book excerpt: Media permeate our lives and are so omnipresent that we take them for granted and overlook their impact. Mobile communication devices, the internet, and social networking sites have transformed the way we live. The media inform us about everything from a polarized electorate to a global pandemic. The potential of media to influence beliefs and behavior is a longstanding topic in media research. This thoroughly revised edition offers an up-to-date look at media effects literature. Fundamentals of Media Effects, 3/e begins with a historical overview of media effects and then covers foundational theories. Research spotlights throughout the text help readers understand how theories translate into specific studies. Understanding the history and theory behind media effects scholarship aids readers in navigating the media-saturated environment. The final section looks at effects in ten key areas: media violence, media sexual content, frightening media content, political communication, health, stereotyping, educational television, video games, the internet, and mobile communication. For more than two decades, the primary goal of Fundamentals of Media Effects has been to present the vitally important topic of media effects in an expansive yet comprehensible format. Compelling discussions include myriad examples from recent scholarship to engage reader interest. Through exploration of mass communication theories and major areas of research, readers develop media literacy skills and become better media consumers and producers.