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Use of money being influenced by entertainment .

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Use of money being influenced by entertainment .

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Influence Celebrities have on society through media 

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Influence Celebrities have on society through media 

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In a society that largely obsesses about entertainment and celebrity culture, celebrities can have a powerful impact on a person's life. From fashion trends to political views, the attractiveness of a celebrity's lifestyle can influence people's beliefs, interests and behaviors.

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Social norms change over time

Social Norms are unwritten rules that are acceptable in a society. They provide us with an expected idea of how to behave in a particular social group or culture. Norms change according to the environment or situation and may change over time. Social norms operate to build and maintain society.

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It is 2017 and technology use is at an all-time high. A new Nielsen Company audience report reveals that adults in the United States devoted about 10 hours and 39 minutes each day in front of a technology device screen in 2016. The devices include smart phones, video games, TV, radios and personal computers. To put this hours per day technology use into perspective, most Americans can't even manage to get eight hours of sleep a day. This suggests that technology has a huge impact on people's lives, especially in the realm of communication.

The Department of Communication at the University of Colorado Springs conducted a study to determine the communication competence of college students in a technology-rich 21st century. The study focused on 223 first-year college students ranging from ages 18-25, all born after 1990. The questions used in the study not only determined social skills and communication competence, but also the self-perceived communication skills of the students.

Study researchers determined that smart phones and social networking sites were the most commonly used technology platform by the college students. Although students in the study reported they prefer face-to-face communication with their peers, results proved that is not the reality.

When it came to personal conversations and situations with friends, the results showed that texting was used more often than face-to-face communication. Students reported feeling more efficient when communicating using technology because it allows them to feel more in control as well as more productive than face-to-face conversations.

62-70 percent of the 223 first year college students said they are never nervous talking to people but 55-70 percent admitted they are nervous about public speaking. Study theories using social networking to communicate gives a false sense of connection with people and in turn makes people feel social isolation.

Marie Arcidiacono, a communications professor at Los Medanos College, said that technology has done more good for this generation than bad, but sometimes there are unintended consequences. Although she has seen an increase in communication majors over her 9 years as teacher, she said she's noticed behavioral differences with students.

"Face to face conversations are on the decline," said Arcidiacono. She highlighted how student behavior has changed with the advancements in technology.

"There was a time earlier in my career, and even when I was a student, where before the teacher came in we would have conversations with each other and be roaming around the classroom," she said. "Now more often than not when I peek into my classroom all I see is the tops of student's heads as they stare down at their phones and no one is interacting with one another."

Despite that, she said it is hard to generalize that technology is affecting social skills in a bad way when phones and social networking sites also help people maintain relationships as well. She added that it can be helpful to talk online but people should try to make sure it's not the only way they communicate or express themselves. "Social media gives us the option to isolate ourselves while still feeling connected," she said.

First year LMC student Danielle Mendoza, who was born after 1999, said that because her generation grew up with smart phones and technology being the norm, it creates a world tough for them not to be dependent on such things when communicating.

"I use social media at least four to five hours a day between Snapchat, Instagram and Twitter," said Mendoza. "I got my first phone when I was 11 years old, so having technology with me everywhere I go is what I'm used to."

Although social networking and texting is convenient, she still prefers to talk to her friends face-to-face. While agreeing that speaking is an important interpersonal skill, Mendoza believes people understand the challenge her generation faces.

"I feel that most people don't judge if you aren't anymore but being a good speaker is something we should all strive to be," she said.

A study done by careeraddict.com reported that manager's rate on a scale of 1 to 5 interpersonal skills as a 4.37, just below the ability to work well in groups at 4.49.

"I don't like public speaking but understand it's needed in the real world and try to put myself in uncomfortable situations so my social skills can grow," she stated.

Returning LMC student Sterling Seymour was born in 1986 and says he does his best to distance himself from social networking sites and technology dependence.

"I am one of the few people out there that has probably never had a Facebook account," he said. "Facebook relationships aren't as genuine." He describes his decision to distance himself from those types of sites because they don't mean anything to him.

"Social media isn't real communicating, if you want me to know all about how bad of a day you had or that you just got a new girlfriend, give me a call and we can talk about that stuff face-to-face," he said, adding how important he thinks people skills are.

He is pursuing a career as a firefighter medic, and public speaking and social skills is the name of the game in that field. He described being too dependent on technology as dangerous and said it could breed social anxiety when your adults and thrown into real world situations.

"I take pride in my people skills and body language," he said.

Although the students in the study and here at LMC all instinctively know face-to-face is the most beneficial form of communicating, technology in the 21st century is steering us away from that path.

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It is 2017 and technology use is at an all-time high. A new Nielsen Company audience report reveals that adults in the United States devoted about 10 hours and 39 minutes each day in front of a technology device screen in 2016. The devices include smart phones, video games, TV, radios and personal computers.

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10 ways the media manipulate our opinion

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Whoever Controls the Media, the Images, Controls the Culture | Min Kim | TEDxLehighU

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10 Social norms that prove how much times have changed

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10 Social norms that prove how much times have changed

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Image: Powell Burns/Flickr

From jeans in the workplace to potty humor, certain things that are considered acceptable these days weren't even appropriate in the past. Check out these faux pas turned total norms.

Work wear

GIF credit: Giphy
Then...
Women were expected to show up for work in nothing short of shoulder pads and calf-grazing skirt suits. 'Cause apparently hem length is in direct proportion to professional, right?
Now...
Casual Friday? Shoot, more like casual Monday through Friday. Today, workplace wardrobe restrictions are few and far between. Jeans? Sure. Your favorite Chucks? Why not?

Prenups
Then...
Well, since divorce wasn't really an option, prenups were a moot point. At the very least, they were considered to be in poor taste... a.k.a. tacky.
Now...
You can't swing a fake Fendi without hitting a prenup these days. Marriage vows might say happily ever after, but apparently the ever-after part needs a contingency plan.

"Nerd" glasses
Then...
Four eyes. Dork. Popeye. Take your pick. Wearing oversize glasses back in the day was sure to earn you a fair amount of getting picked on. If only you had perfect vision and didn't need glasses.
Now...
Everybody and their brother sports a pair of oversize spectacles - never mind that half of those spectacle-sporters don't even have a prescription. These puppies are purely decorative for many.

Arguing and conflict resolution
Then...
You settle your business in person, in private. Discretion is key.
Now...
Most tiffs - and even workplace-based disputes - can be settled with a string of texts. Or, you know, made worse because you have no idea if that emoji your friend just sent you means she's blushing in an "awe shucks, you're so sweet" way or a "my blood pressure is through the roof" way.

Celeb-stalking
Then...
Remember the days when it was considered rude to gawk at a complete stranger, much less sneak up paparazzi style and try to steal a picture of them? Yeah, we don't either.
Now...
We consider it our right, nay our responsibility, to tweet the whereabouts of any celebrity we see. Some people have built their entire careers on snapping photos of the backs of celebrity heads and sharing the barely distinguishable evidence online.

Hashtags
Then...
Sure, hashtags were proper in the past. On the phone. People called them pound signs.
Now...
Without hashtags, how could we possibly qualify our lives? How would we capture all the feelings we feel without that all-encompassing symbol? #hashtag #hashtagsfordays #arewetiredofthisyet

Dinner etiquette
Then...
Family dinners were all about bonding and communication. The most common dinner table conversation starter went a little something like, "So, how was everyone's day?" After dinner, the "kids" cleaned the table and washed the dishes once they thanked their parents for the wonderful meal. At dinner parties, guests would compliment the chef and host on their lovely serving skills.
Now...
To pay homage to the chef and host for the beautiful meal, food must be photographed and immortalized via Instagram. Hashtags like #bestmealever and @mentioning the chef and host are like a living, breathing thank-you card.

The politics of age
Then...
Fraternizing with anyone wildly younger than you was considered a big social no-no. The only contact you might have with someone 10 plus years your junior would be in a professional way (you're a teacher) or parental way (you're a mom).
Now...
No one bats too much of an eye when your friends' 13-year-old daughter leaves a comment on your Facebook page. As long as you know the parents, it isn't considered creeper status to have a few much younger friends on Facebook. It might be less proper, in fact, to not accept their friend requests.

Potty humor
Then...
Go to the bathroom and grab a bar of soap. Now stick it in your mouth. That's how proper it used to be to talk about anything related to bodily functions. Mothers, who you might think wouldn't be able to avoid it, discreetly dodged mention of such words as though they were tiny little word grenades. Or, you know, simply used filler phrases like "going tinkle" and "taking a loopsy doopsy" (*cough* MOM!).
Now...
Not only is potty humor acceptable, but it is actually considered to be pure, unadulterated hilarity that must be shared with the world. Words like poop are no longer considered linguistic pariahs - it's perfectly proper to bring them up in casual conversation when you're telling a joke or, well, if you're a mom.

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Hilarious parody video shakes some sense into men about catcalls

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From jeans at work to nerd glasses, nobody thought these things would be OK

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From jeans in the workplace to potty humor, certain things that are considered acceptable these days weren't even appropriate in the past. Check out these faux pas turned total norms. GIF credit: Giphy Then... Women were expected to show up for work in nothing short of shoulder pads and calf-grazing skirt suits.

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New Social Norms

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The New Social Norms | Identity, Sharing, and Influence on the Social Web | InformIT

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This chapter explores how online identity and sharing have changed as a result of online social networks, explains the new etiquette and expectations about these sites, and introduces an important new concept of transitive trust in purchase decisions.

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Media, in general, can be described in simple terms, like a movie was good, the book was sad, or the Internet is informative, and how did we ever live without it! Psychologists, on the other hand, look at media from a theoretical perspective by bringing social cognitive theories to media (which suggests that individuals are proactively involved in their development, and can, therefore, exercise control over their feelings, thoughts, and actions).

In other words, Media Psychology focuses on the relationship between human behavior and the media. It studies the interaction between individuals, groups, and technology, and tries to make sense out of this synergy. As recently as 1950, when television was becoming a popular form of entertainment, media psychologists became concerned about children and their enthusiasm of television viewing and the impact, if any, on their reading skills. Later psychologists began studying the impact of violent television viewing on children's behavior, and if they were more likely to exhibit asocial behavior.

Dr. Sarah Vinson, a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist, says that media continues to consume an ever-growing part of people's lives. People, and young people specifically do not have the face-to-face interaction they need in order to learn social skills, and more and more children are having a difficult time interacting with others, which can lead to unsociable behavior.

" With 24-hour news channels, phones, the Internet, and television, young people are simply trying to figure out how they fit into this world, and they look to media for the answer." Dr. Vinson continues, "This, however, is the new normal. Young people grew up with all of this, and parents are trying to catch up. Even so, we need to limit screen-time, especially if it is filling a void for the child or interfering with face-to-face conversations."

Studies on the impact of media led to the formation of the APA's, Division 46, the Media Psychology Division, in 1987. In 2012, the APA's Media Psychology Division 46 became the APA Society for Media Psychology and Technology (with their own Facebook page, which seems appropriate). This division is now one of the fastest growing in the APA and has advanced to include new media studies, such as cell phone technology, the Internet, and computer and console gaming.

According to the APA, Division 46, "Media Psychology focuses on the psychology behind media and technology use and impact" - and as media technologies evolve, so will media psychology, and too, the demand for media psychologists.

But, because the field of media psychology is so new and dynamic, career paths are difficult to define. Entrants into this field have both the thrill and the burden of defining its evolution. As each new technology is introduced, media psychology morphs to meet the cognitive and humanistic components of the user's experience. What psychologists do know is that technologies are everywhere, and people of all ages use technology.

And since technology is here to stay, older people worry about its use by younger people, and everyone worries if all of media and technology is good or bad, or (most likely) somewhere in-between.

Dr. Pamela Rutledge, PhD, MBA, Director of the Media Psychology Research Center and a professor of media psychology at Fielding Graduate University asks, "What would people prefer, a plate of food that is handed to you, or a buffet? Media offers choices; what technologies we want to use, each with a different level or exploration."

It's also important to consider how the expansion of new technologies influences different markets. It's not surprising that tech-savvy markets, such as Seattle, San Jose, and San Francisco top the list for many new technologies. However, in the past 18 months, cities like Pittsburgh, Miami, and Detroit, saw double-digit gains in smartphone, subscription video-on-demand, and tablet penetration.

Still, media isn't just about video games, blogs, YouTube, Twitter, television, printed media, or radio. It also encompasses psychologists appearing in the media, such as Dr. Phil or Dr. Paul Weston (played by Gabriel Byrne) in HBO's "In Treatment" and their influence on our thoughts and actions. It can also take into account professional psychologists using media to advertise their private practice or services.

In fact, over the past ten years, advertising by professionals has jumped nearly 63-percent, and continues to gain acceptance among psychologists, doctors, dentists and other professionals who use social media as a means to advertise, gain referrals and feedback. Many maintain a Facebook page or a blog. They may tweet, or make use of an app for scheduling appointments. And, as nearly 95-percent of clients look online first (trumping referrals by family or close friends) for a psychologist, having a presence can energize, or reenergize a private practice.

Dr. Michael Zito, PhD, and a licensed psychologist in private practice adds, "Advertising a private practice with a professional Facebook page, for instance, is great, but it can also complicate the doctor-patient relationship when a client wants to 'friend' you, and for ethical reasons you must say no. Keeping a professional practice and personal life separate is imperative."

Media Psychology and Video Games

One area that is getting a lot of attention, both positive and negative, is video gaming. Psychologists have varying viewpoints, but all agree that gaming is absolutely having an impact on children, teenagers, young adults, and even people well into their 70's.

As far back as 1940, video gaming was challenging players with games like chess, tennis, and blackjack, and even US military wargaming. Then, in the early 1990's, real-life strategy games and first-person shooting games, like Doom and Mortal Kombat prompted US Senate hearings on video game violence. In early 2000, Massively Multiplayer Online (MMO) gaming took hold, with World of Warcraft (among others). As MMO gaming creates virtual universes, it redefined how gamers play, learn, and even relate to each other. Mobile games like Farmville and Angry Birds played on platforms like Facebook and iPhones, saw millions of people who had not previously considered themselves gamers, burning time at work, on the road, and at home.

The controversy about game violence, bloodshed, and the fact that gamers spend hours playing games not only riles the video game industry but parents and psychologists alike have raised questions about the potential for violence, since the gamer is an active participant and not merely a viewer, as with television.

A 2010 review by psychologist Craig A. Anderson concluded, "The evidence strongly suggests that exposure to violent video games is a causal risk factor for increased aggressive behavior, aggressive cognition, and aggressive affect, and for decreased empathy and pro-social behavior."

While this is true, there are often two sides regarding the impact of video gaming, and both are valid. Dr. Rutledge, who is the Director of Media Psychology Research Center, says there are any number of news stories about people connecting through social media that culminates in a crime. However, much of the time the story in the news isn't about the crime, it's about the fact the perpetrators played video games. "We skirt around the real story and focus on the media instead, which is not always reflective of the larger picture."

Although some studies have shown an increase in violent tendencies in children and an increase in violent behavior, other studies have debunked these claims. But, as more than 90-percent of all US children regularly play video games (in some form) and 97-percent of youths, ages 12-17, the question remains - are video games good, bad, or a mix of good and bad?

Those who stand to make the most money in the industry, i.e., game developers and game console manufacturers, for instance, will argue that if violent video games cause aggression, violent crime rates in the U.S. would be increasing instead of decreasing. However, in a 2001 Report of the Surgeon General on Youth Violence, violent crime perpetrated by youth is increasing (or certainly not decreasing). Exposure to violent games is also increasing, as are violent video games. Another question that has been raised - are our youth becoming more and more desensitized to violence through gaming?

Notwithstanding, you only have to look at the evening news or other late-night television show to understand that video games are not the only, or even primary factor contributing to this desensitization, or to youth violence. The National Television Violence Study, a three-year assessment of more than 3,000 programs a year, found that a steady 60-percent of programs across twenty-six channels contain some physical aggression.

But beyond the violence of video games (as not all, or nearly half of all games are violent), what about the anti-social behavior that is typified by gaming? Go anywhere today and the view is the same, people sitting quietly, head bowed, fingers tapping while playing, texting or emailing on their phones or tablets. Conversation is virtually unheard. Yet many people will argue that technology and the media allow us to instead share our experiences, become more socially active, and build relationships with people across the world through gaming.

Although the jury is still out on whether the obsession with gaming will, in fact, leave people without the ability to converse socially, this much is true - according to the Personality and Individual Differences, a peer-reviewed academic journal published 16-times per year by Elsevier, people who constantly (more than 95-minutes a day) play games, text, or email on their phones are more prone to moodiness and temperamental behavior, and are therefore less likely to engage in conversation.

On a more positive note, video gaming does have its benefits. Dr. Pamela Rutledge asserts that there are many benefits for people who are shy or withdrawn. Gaming, as well as all social media, allows people to connect with other people around the world. Media can add creativity to our thinking, and it allows us to explore and become actively involved without the fear of rejection. And while no one advocates spending hour after hour gaming, games can improve a person's' self-efficacy, boost their cognitive flexibility and self-control, and build social connections.

Teaching with video games (game-based learning) is an emerging tool for motivational and engagement learning in rehabilitation facilities, in schools, day cares, and in special education classrooms. Teachers have found that games not only engage students, but they also inspire learning. It's been shown that even after students have been dismissed from the classroom they continue to solve a game's puzzles and problems. In that way, students become part of the story, rather than sitting back listening to a lecture. Games can show students how better to deal with success and failure (in order to win at many games, you sometimes have to fail first). Games allow students to work together, organize, and function as a team. Studies have also shown that with the use of certain games in the classroom, students can encourage and inspire other classmates, which in turn adds value to their lives, and improves their happiness.

Researchers at the Mind Research Network found that the mental workout gained by playing Tetris helped gamers develop a thicker cerebral cortex when compared to people who had never played. Likewise, a study at the University of Rochester discovered links between playing first-person shooter games and improved decision-making and reaction times.

Psychology of Facebook and other Social Media

Over the past ten years, Facebook has become one of the most popular online sites ever, suggesting that it offers things we naturally crave - acceptance and companionship. And on the surface, that may be true. However, just like with any other online frenzy, Facebook can (and often does) invoke psychological issues, many of which may go unnoticed for weeks, months or years.

A recent study found that heavy Facebook users experience a decrease in subjective well-being over time. Many users become depressed with their lack of success, or they may envy a friend's successes more. Maybe one person's Facebook profile doesn't have as many likes or followers, and so they feel inadequate or unequal. Some people become jealous of others, unhappy with their current circumstances, and ultimately fall into an on-going depression.

Yet, we are sucked in by Facebook, and there's a psychology behind that. There have been numerous studies regarding why we log on. Facebook is said to tap the brain's pleasure center; the more we log-on and receive positive feedback, the greater our use. Another study found that physiological reactions, such as pupil dilation happen when browsing Facebook. These reactions evoke a feeling of happiness, like when we learn and master a new skill. We identify with other people on Facebook by "liking" certain posts - sometimes more than once or twice a day and thus become connected with another person's interests and their friends, which helps grow our optimism and contentment.

But, Facebook can become addictive. The DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) now includes a diagnosis that has stirred recent controversy: a series of items that gauge Internet Addiction. One of those "items" is Facebook, leading to the creation of a Facebook addiction scale:

You spend a lot of time thinking about Facebook, what's going on and am I missing anything

You log into Facebook to forget about personal problems

You become upset if you can't log into Facebook

You want to use Facebook more and more often

You use Facebook so much that it has had a negative impact on your job, your family life, or your studies.

You have tried to cut down on the use of Facebook, but can't

Ironically, the DSM-5 has a Facebook page with over 188,500 likes as of the publishing of this article!
Yet, Dr. Joanne Broder Sumerson, PhD, research psychologist and author, and also the new President Elect for Div. 46 of the APA, believes we've gotten smarter about what we post to Facebook. "Years ago people posted everything. Because it was so new, there was no filter on what was said, or what photos we posted. Today, there is an increased awareness of our online identities."

As a footnote, Facebook is not the only form of social media that draws people in like a magnet. Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and many other such sites entice us to keep coming back for entertainment, relaxation, social interaction, and more.

Rachel Ritlop, M.Ed, Career and Business Coach, holds a Master's degree in Vocational Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling. She asserts that there are three big reasons why social media is all-consuming:

Boredom - People have grown so accustomed to over-stimulation that when they are bored, they begin scrolling. Or, they feel insecure in the fact they have nothing to do, so they begin scrolling.

Positive reinforcement - People have grown accustomed to positive reinforcement with "likes" and "follows" being the measuring stick. This can feel great, and it reinforces the behavior to stay on social media and continue trying to get more "likes" and "follows".

Instant gratification - I see this happen at the dinner table all of the time, a family gets into a debate about who the actress was in a movie, so one of them whips out there phone to Google it, and all of the sudden that person has been on the phone for five minutes because they got distracted by other things. We like having all of the answers at our fingertips, but it often leads to disconnection on other levels.

Dr. Michael Zito, PhD, and licensed psychologist in private practice says that the 1970's spurred an era of self-entitlement rather than self-esteem, and social media fueled this point of view. "Many people use social media for self-gratification, expecting grand rewards for very little effort. For example, trophies are given to young people for simply participating in a team sport. They no longer have to come in first to receive an award. But, there can't be 12-best kids on a team of 12. It's mathematically impossible. It's the same for social media. We can't all be special all the time."

Another aspect of social media that has raised the eyebrows of more than one parent is the sharing of personal information and inappropriate photos. A comprehensive research study on social media answers why people share, reveals the primary motivations for sharing, and the impact of sharing for individuals, as well as for businesses.

But sharing has to be put into perspective. Dr. Joanne Sumerson offers an example. "Long ago while sitting in a nail bar, I overheard a conversation by a young woman on her cell phone. The young woman was speaking about a recent doctor appointment, and the details of the conversation were of a very personal nature. Even in a crowded public place, she didn't seem to realize everyone was listening in."

"Sometimes there seems to be such a lack of awareness," Dr. Sumerson acknowledges, "and no immediate consequences for our actions. That said, I do think things are getting better, overall. People are becoming more and more aware that there are indeed consequences. There have been repercussions, for instance, when people post embarrassing photos on Facebook. Today, employers are logging into social media sites and viewing potential employees profiles, which has helped to transform social media. But as with every new thing, it just takes time to acclimate and gain awareness of our actions."

Kelley Kitley, LCSW, licensed clinical social worker in private practice puts it this way, " Sharing though media is like a photo album, you don't put embarrassing photos into an album you plan to share with others."

Media Psychology and TV

As a society, on average, we spend nearly seven hours a day as 'couch potatoes' planted comfortably in front of the television, or in front of our computers downloading the latest movie on Amazon. A study by ThinkBox explains that television satisfies our emotional needs: for comfort, to unwind, to escape, indulge, or simply for the experience. Companies advertising their wares spend millions of dollars a year to promote their message(s), and advertising companies spend many months deciphering data about what people want or need in order to keep us hooked.

In the 1950's when black and white images flashed over very small television screens, psychologists began noticing how a simple television show could impact and influence the behavior of viewers. For instance, the way women were portrayed on television. Maybe less so today than in the past, women on TV were generally thin, which in turn introduced a stereotype decreeing all women should be thin. The psychological issues this has caused, such as bulimia and anorexia, abound even today.

But there is no arguing that TV shapes how we view people and view the world as a whole. It influences what we buy, how we feel, why we make the choices we do, and even shapes what we believe. Case in point, years ago it was uncommon to show African Americans on TV. Not showing this demographic on television, in essence, made them invisible and led to apathy towards this race. Thankfully, we can learn from our mistakes.
CHECK OUT:
Reality TV

One aspect of television that has seen enormous growth in recent years is that of " Reality TV" where real people are continuously filmed, is designed to be entertaining rather than informative. Psychologists ask, are we so unhappy in our own lives that watching the perceived reality of other people's lives feeds a need; either to feel better in our own skin or to realize others also struggle as we do?

The Internet Ruined My Life - a new reality television show airing on Syfy January 2016, exposes the unexpected pitfalls of living in a social media-obsessed world. It follows the 'tweets' and 'emails' posted by individuals, and how their "instant" actions have altered their lives.

Kelley Kitley, LCSW, a psychotherapist and licensed social worker contends, "Media is like 'freedom of speech,' it gives you a platform to say what's on your mind, but it can also have unintended repercussions."

However, reality TV shows in which we have a say in the outcome, as with American Idol or Dancing With The Stars, puts the audience in control of the results and gives viewers a stake in the outcome. Research has shown that we watch reality TV because we love the drama and glamour that's portrayed through shows like Keeping Up With the Kardashians. But, after a long day, it's possible that the real reason we tune into other people's reality is simply for pure entertainment.

How the Exposure to Negative Media Influences our Behavior

Newspapers, radio, and television programs broadcast the news 24-hours a day, 365 days a year. Therefore, it is nearly impossible to avoid bad news and the negative influence it has on our lives. School shootings, terrorist attacks and airplane crashes, as well as the incessant onslaught of violence from all forms of media, can have long-lasting psychological repercussions and ultimately lead to thoughts of our world falling apart, stress and anxiety. It's frightening to note that nearly two-thirds of all TV programs contain some physical violence, according to Nielsen Company.

Our brains are hardwired to focus on the shocking and horrific. And much like our obsession with traffic accidents and chasing ambulances, negativity on television is difficult to ignore, and it can significantly influence how we view our lives and the world. Negative TV can lead to negative thoughts, leading us to view our lives as more distressing than they actually are. Some research has even shown that viewing traumatic images on the news can cause PTSD-like (post-traumatic stress) symptoms. In 2001, people were glued to their TV sets when terrorists took down the Twin Towers in New York City. Studies later showed that viewing these images of 9/11 triggered fear and reduced confidence in our nation's security. Interestingly, the research also showed that the degree of our fear was directly correlated with the amount of time spent watching the news.

Psychologists have also noted that this exposure to graphic violence, and to negative media can either cause an over-sensitization, where we become more sensitive and pessimistic or can lead to desensitization, in which we are actually numb to the effects of violence. (As mentioned, this has also been observed in those who have been repeatedly exposed to violent video games).

Unfortunately, this pessimism can lead us to ignore the many things that are positive in the media, and in the world. We only have to look at the many upbeat posts from friends and family on Facebook, the news story about a hero that pulled a young woman from a burning car, or a Tweet about a new cure for AIDS to know that the quality of life for millions of people has actually improved - despite what the headlines suggest.

The Future

There is no doubt that media and psychology have made major contributions to our society in the past century. And although still in its infancy, Media Psychology continues to tap into the potential for use in areas, such as science, business, entertainment, advocacy, public policy and much more. Understanding the relationship - both dynamic and interactive - between media and society is key to its further development, and its positive) influence in our lives.

As media psychologists continue to study the phenomenon of media, the implications of media persuasion, how media influences our interpretation of information, our development, and our differences, we will begin to better understand how to use and develop technologies to communicate, connect, interact, discuss, and discover new things. As the field of media psychology changes each time there is an update to a mobile app, psychologists must not only look at the work that has been accomplished, but must also look at the work that needs to be done going forward.

As Dr. Kelley Kitley so aptly says, "It's amazing what can be accomplished through media. The possibilities are endless. Find a niche and be passionate about it. Get out there and change the stigmas of media and the stigmas that are born from media."

Learn more about a media psychology degree and how to become a media psychologist.

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The Impact Of Media - Good or Bad? | CareersinPsychology.org

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Media, in general, can be described in simple terms, like a movie was good, the book was sad, or the Internet is informative, and how did we ever live without it!

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In the last five decades or so, the media and its influence on the societies, has grown exponentially with the advance of technology.

First there was the telegraph and the post offices, then the radio, the newspaper, magazines, television and now the internet and the new media including palmtops, cell phones etc. There are positive and negative influences of mass media, which we must understand as a responsible person of a society.

Before discussing the influence of mass media on society it is imperative to explain the three basic functions of mass media; they are providing news/information, entertainment and education. The first and foremost function of the media in a society is to provide news and information to the masses, that is why the present era is some time termed as the information age as well.

People need news/information for various reasons, on one hand it can be used to socialize and on the other to make decisions and formulate opinions. Entertainment would be the other function of the mass media where it is mostly used by the masses to amuse them in present day hectic environment. Educating the masses about their rights, moral, social and religious obligations is another important function of mass media, which needs no emphasis.

In present era of globalization, majority of people in the society depends on information and communication to remain connected with the world and do our daily activities like work, entertainment, health care, education, socialization, travelling and anything else that we have to do.

A common urban person usually wakes up in the morning checks the tv news or newspaper, goes to work, makes a few phone calls, eats with their family or peers when possible and makes his decisions based on the information that he has either from their co workers, Tv news, friends, family, financial reports, etc. we need to be conscious of the reality that most of our decisions, beliefs and values are based on what we know for a fact, our assumptions and our own experience. In our work we usually know what we have to do, based on our experience and studies, however on our routine life and house hold chores we mostly rely on the mass media to get the current news and facts about what is important and what we should be aware of.

We have put our trust on the media as an authority to give us news, entertainment and education. However, the influence of mass media on our kids, teenagers and society is so big that we should know how it really works. The media makes billions of dollars with the advertising they sell and that we are exposed to, every single moment. We buy what we are told to buy by the media. After seeing thousands of advertising's we make our buying decisions based on what we saw on tv, newspapers or magazines. These are the effects of mass media especially in teenagers, they buy what they see on tv, what their favorite celebrity advertise and what is acceptable by society based on the fashion that the media has imposed on them.

There are some positive and negative influences in young people of our society due to these ad campaigns in the media. Here is a positive influence example, if there is a quiz show on education that is getting a lot of attention by the media and gains popularity among your friends and society, you will more likely want to actively participate and watch these quiz shows. These activities are good for the society and will promote literary activities in the youth. However a negative influence in teenagers is the use of guns and ammunition by celebrity movie stars, the constant exposure of which would seduce the teen to replicate the same behavior in the real life.

When we watch tv or a action movie we usually see many images of violence and people hurting others. The problem with this is that it can become traumatic especially in our children as they see it more and more. Our kids that are starting to grow and are shaping their personality values and beliefs can become aggressive or they can lose a sense of distinction between reality and fiction. Another problem is that real war is used as a form of entertainment by the media, we should make our kids and teen aware that war is not a form of entertainment and that there is no win or lose like in video games, in real war everyone lose.

Teens, youngsters are in a stage of life where they want to be accepted by their peers, they want to be loved and be successful. The media creates the ideal image of beautiful men and women with all the ingredients of a successful person, you can see it in movies and tv. It's a subliminal way to persuade the masses that if you want to be successful and look like them then you have to buy that particular brand or product. Another negative influence in teenagers, especially in the USA, that has grown over the last years is obesity. There are millions of adolescents fighting obesity, but at the same time they are exposed to thousands of advertisements of junk food, while the ideal image of a successful person is told to be thin and wealthy.

The media has a huge impact on society in shaping the public opinion of the masses. They can form or modify the public opinion in different ways depending of what is the objective. For example, Pakistani media influenced the public opinion against the Taliban in Swat by repeated telecast of a video clip showing whipping of a woman by a Taliban.

Before that the public opinion over the military action against the Taliban in Swat was divided, but repeated telecast of this short video clip changed the public opinion over night in the favor of the government to take action. Other ways to influence are with polls and trends, especially in political campaigns. The candidates that can pay for more tv and media exposure have more influence on public opinion and thus can receive more votes.

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In the last five decades or so, the media and its influence on the societies, has grown exponentially with the advance of technology. First there was the telegraph and the post offices, then the radio, the newspaper, magazines, television and now the internet and the new media including palmtops, cell phones etc.

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Mass media | Society and Culture | MCAT | Khan Academy

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Is Social Media Hurting Your Mental Health? | Bailey Parnell | TEDxRyersonU

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Janey Lee, a new faculty addition to Lehigh's Department of Journalism & Communication, is combining her interest in media psychology and political communication with her past career as a Korean journalist into a prolific ...

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Without question, Social Media has had a profound impact on the concept of a "personal brand". Our lives become increasingly more public, as we all share information on a variety of networks. This transition hit us like a truck-- first it was "the kids" spending time on Friendster, Myspace, and then . Now, over 78% of the U.S. population has a social network profile. This behavioral shift has reverberating effects-- not just in how we spend our time, but in how we feel about ourselves. In speaking to hundreds of women leaders on my podcast, All the Social Ladies, I've seen this time and time again. I thought it was time to share some of their perspectives-- and so, I asked them: How do you think social media has changed you? Do you think that others having more access to information about you has made you more confident? Less? Do you find yourself changing how and what you say based on the fact that you know things are so readily shared?

I loved the story that Lynne Jarman Johnson, the CMO of Consumer's Credit Union, relayed to me about the impact that embracing social media has had on her everyday life. "I've always been an open book", Johnson said. "But social media cracks the binding way open. If you think people are not watching what you do, I'll give you an example. There was a man who 'introduced' himself over a gas pump to my husband. 'Hey (spoke my husband's first name like they were best pals), I know Lynne!' My husband asked how he knew me. The stranger's response? 'Oh, I've never met her, or you. I just follow Lynne on Facebook-- so I feel like I know you.' This scenario reminded me that what you post stays with you forever." Johnson uses the hashtag #SimplyBeKind as a reminder to be kind both online and off-- and she attributes social media to keeping her and others accountable to subscribing to that mantra. "You cannot hide behind a computer screen", she says.

Although it's true that you can't hide behind a screen, you can choose what and where to post. Some find that the more open and authentic you are, the better. Social media helped Anita Rosner, renowned blogger and host of the podcast Snork, gain the confidence to relaunch her acting career. Rosner recently relaunched her acting career after a 20+ year absence. To do so, she decided she needed to get real about the process. "I've ditched posting the best of myself, and now post photos that are very authentic-- even when I'm made to look awful-- because that's part of the job. I've noticed a lot more hits on my podcast as a result." And Deena Baikowitz, Chief Networking Officer at the Fireball Network, says social media has made her an even better networker. "I love using social media to share more of my personal life with my network. It makes me- and everyone who uses it- more memorable, relatable, interesting and approachable. Now, at business networking events, the first thing people say is often "how's the dating going" or "I love your photos-- where do you dance". Sharing my personal life creates much more meaningful connections, provides fun conversation starters, and sets a friendly tone to lead into business talk." Baikowitz has seen the success of that "warmed" networking firsthand-- her business has grown as a result.

Of course, being authentic is wonderful, but the realization that you now have a "personal brand" whether you like it or not, can be truly daunting. Some, however, use their networks to not only showcase their personal brand, but help them develop one. Marie Bonaccorse, Founder and Social Media Specialist at the Sassy Tweetress, talks about the digital legacy that your footprint leaves-- and using the community to help keep your brand in check. "Trust me when I say you will know if you're off", says Bonaccorse. "Your community is a great litmus for both your strengths and weaknesses. I have found that surrounding myself with those I admire, respect and love, I have a network of empowerment. Social media has made me more confident. It solidifies my philosophies and opinions but keeps me open and accepting for when I need correction."

This type of course correction can either come from reflection, like in the case of Bonaccorse, or, like in the case of Dea Lawrence, the CMO of Variety, it can come from taking a pause before posting. "I do find myself being thoughtful in what I respond to , share or state as it not only reflects my personal brand but the brand I represent and I would not want one of my posts to be misinterpreted." Although she does take pause, Lawrence finds that social media has also increased her confidence-- "Social media has raised my profile so, in that regard, it has made me more confident that I am perceived as an expert".

Lawrence is not alone in the shift towards more conscious behavior as a whole. Kat Gordon, Founder of 3% Conference, adds, "The amplification of social media has made me get crystal clear on what I believe before I share it". Carmen Shirkey Collins, Social Media Manager of the Talent Brand at Cisco says it's not just being conscious about the message, but being conscious about the medium in which it's posted. "I think about the content I'm going to post before I post it and where. Which channel will this go on? Sometimes, I post the same story but in different ways. For example, I'll take an Instagram photo, post it to Facebook, reshoot it for optimal viewing, and then take a Snap as well!"

Laurie Satran, a longtime blogger and social media manager at Starr Restaurants, talks about how social media challenged her to stop comparing herself to others. "In the beginning, when I first became active on social media, I spent a lot of my time comparing myself and achievements to what I saw others doing. This stripped me of my confidence when I didn't think I 'measured up'. After making connections with the people I had compared myself to and learning from them instead of comparing myself to them, I realized there is more support and empowerment in online communities than there is resistance and competition. The only person I now try to be better than everyday, is myself."

I love the perspective that Cara Friedman, Social Media Manager of ClassPass shared, and think it truly sums up the effect social media has had on each of our concept of self-- along with what to do about it. "I certainly post things that will show off the best version of myself, and I know that when I see others through my feeds, they are likely doing the same. You shouldn't feel less confident or proud in your own accomplishments based on what you see others post. Remember, if you're not sharing your whole self on social media, others likely aren't either."

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Without question, Social Media has had a profound impact on the concept of a "personal brand". Our lives become increasingly more public, as we all share information on a variety of networks. This transition hit us like a truck-- first it was "the kids" spending time on Friendster, Myspace, and [...]