FOR JULY 2022 AND JANUARY 2023
PSYCHOLOGY AND MEDIA
1. Explain the relationship between psychology and media. Discuss the role of media psychologist.
Psychology and media are interrelated fields, as media often affects the thoughts, emotions, and behaviors of individuals, and psychological principles can be applied to understand and analyze media content and its impact.
Media psychologists play a crucial role in examining the ways in which media influences individuals and society, and in developing strategies to promote positive media use. They use research methods to investigate the effects of media on attitudes, behaviors, and mental health, and work with media producers to develop content that is informative, engaging, and ethically responsible.
Media psychologists also play a role in developing interventions to promote positive media use, such as media literacy programs that teach individuals to critically evaluate and interpret media content. They may work in a variety of settings, such as academia, research institutes, and media organizations, and collaborate with other professionals, such as journalists, filmmakers, and advertisers.
Overall, media psychologists have a critical role in promoting healthy and responsible media use, and in shaping the ways in which media is produced and consumed. By applying psychological principles and conducting rigorous research, they can help to mitigate the negative effects of media and promote its positive potential.
2. Elucidate the characteristics of a parasocial relationship. Discuss the factors affecting parasocial relationship.
A parasocial relationship refers to a one-sided, non-reciprocal relationship between a media user and a media figure, such as a celebrity, television character, or social media influencer. Although the relationship is not based on direct interaction, the media user may feel a sense of intimacy, identification, and attachment towards the media figure. The following are some of the key characteristics of parasocial relationships:
Asymmetrical nature: Parasocial relationships are unidirectional and unequal in nature, with the media figure being unaware of the relationship and the media user having limited or no access to the figure.
Illusion of intimacy: Media users may feel a sense of emotional closeness to the media figure, even though the relationship is purely one-sided and based on mediated representations.
Psychological gratification: Parasocial relationships can provide psychological benefits such as entertainment, companionship, social comparison, and self-enhancement.
Stability and durability: Parasocial relationships can persist over time, and even survive changes in media context, as the media user may feel a sense of loyalty and attachment to the media figure.
Factors affecting parasocial relationships:
Personality traits: Some individuals may be more susceptible to developing parasocial relationships due to factors such as loneliness, low self-esteem, and high levels of identification with media characters.
Media factors: The type of media content and the way it is presented can influence the development of parasocial relationships. For example, the use of close-up shots, personal narratives, and emotional appeals can increase the sense of intimacy and attachment.
Social factors: Parasocial relationships can be influenced by social factors such as age, gender, cultural background, and social norms around media use.
Individual differences in media literacy: The ability to critically evaluate media content and recognize the mediated nature of parasocial relationships can affect the likelihood of developing such relationships.
In conclusion, parasocial relationships are a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that can have both positive and negative effects on individuals' mental health and well-being. By understanding the characteristics and factors that influence these relationships, media psychologists can help individuals to develop healthy and responsible media habits, and media producers can create content that is both engaging and ethically responsible.
Assignment Two 3 x 10 = 30
Answer the following questions in about 250 words each.
3. Define media. Explain the significance and functions of media.
Media refers to the communication channels and platforms that are used to disseminate information and messages to a large and diverse audience. It includes traditional forms of media such as newspapers, radio, and television, as well as newer forms such as social media, blogs, and podcasts.
The significance of media lies in its ability to shape public opinion, influence social norms, and facilitate the exchange of information and ideas. The following are some of the key functions of media:
Informative function: Media serves as a primary source of news, information, and knowledge, providing individuals with the latest updates on local and global events, scientific discoveries, and social issues.
Educational function: Media can be used to educate and enlighten individuals on a wide range of topics, including history, culture, art, and science.
Entertainment function: Media provides a form of entertainment and leisure, offering individuals a wide range of content such as music, movies, sports, and television shows.
Social function: Media can facilitate social interaction and communication, allowing individuals to connect with each other, form communities, and participate in public discourse.
Persuasive function: Media can be used to influence public opinion and attitudes, and to promote certain values, beliefs, and behaviors.
In summary, media plays a significant role in shaping the way we perceive and interact with the world around us, providing us with access to information, knowledge, and entertainment. Its functions are diverse and varied, and its impact on individuals and society can be far-reaching and profound.
4. Explain the theory of Social Constructionism and differentiate it from Symbolic Interactionism.
Social constructionism is a theoretical perspective that suggests that the way we understand and interpret the world is shaped by social and cultural processes. It emphasizes the role of language, communication, and discourse in shaping our perceptions of reality. According to social constructionism, our understanding of reality is not objective, but is rather a product of social agreements and negotiations. It posits that social phenomena such as gender, race, and identity are not natural or inherent, but are instead socially constructed through language and social interaction.
Symbolic interactionism, on the other hand, is a micro-level theoretical perspective that emphasizes the importance of symbols and meanings in shaping social interaction and behavior. It suggests that individuals interact with each other based on shared meanings and interpretations of symbols and signs. According to symbolic interactionism, social reality is not fixed, but is rather an ongoing process of negotiation and interpretation.
The key difference between social constructionism and symbolic interactionism lies in their scope and focus. While social constructionism is a broader theoretical perspective that seeks to explain how social and cultural processes shape our understanding of reality, symbolic interactionism is a more specific perspective that focuses on the role of symbols and meanings in shaping social interaction and behavior. Additionally, social constructionism emphasizes the role of power, ideology, and discourse in shaping social phenomena, while symbolic interactionism focuses more on the micro-level dynamics of social interaction.
In summary, social constructionism and symbolic interactionism are two theoretical perspectives that share some similarities but also have important differences. While both perspectives emphasize the importance of social and cultural processes in shaping our understanding of reality, social constructionism is a broader perspective that emphasizes the role of power and ideology, while symbolic interactionism is a more specific perspective that focuses on the role of symbols and meanings in shaping social interaction and behavior.
5. Describe the role of media in development of education.
Media plays a crucial role in the development of education by providing access to information and learning resources to a wider audience. The following are some ways in which media contributes to the development of education:
Access to information: Media provides access to information on a wide range of educational topics, including academic subjects, career opportunities, and educational programs. This information can be accessed through traditional media such as books, newspapers, and television, as well as digital media such as websites, blogs, and online courses.
Learning resources: Media provides a wealth of learning resources, including textbooks, instructional videos, podcasts, and interactive digital content. These resources can be used to supplement classroom instruction and to provide students with additional learning opportunities.
Distance learning: Media technologies such as online courses, video conferencing, and educational apps have made it possible for students to learn remotely, regardless of their location. This has expanded access to education for individuals who may not have had access to traditional classroom-based learning.
Collaboration and networking: Media platforms such as social media and online forums provide opportunities for students to collaborate and network with their peers and educators. This can facilitate the exchange of ideas, feedback, and support, and can contribute to a more dynamic and engaging learning experience.
In summary, media plays a critical role in the development of education by providing access to information and learning resources, expanding access to education through distance learning, and facilitating collaboration and networking among students and educators. Media technologies have the potential to transform the way education is delivered and to provide new opportunities for learning and development.
Assignment Three 5 x 6 = 30
Answer the following questions in about 100 words each.
6. News framing
7. Classification of cybercrime
8. Media and well-being
9. Health education and mass media
10. Gaming addiction
6 News framing refers to the way in which news stories are presented and constructed by journalists, editors, and other media professionals. News framing can influence the way that audiences perceive and understand events, issues, and individuals. News frames can include factors such as tone, emphasis, selection of sources, and presentation style. For example, a news story about a political issue might be framed in terms of a conflict between two opposing sides, or it might be framed in terms of the impact that the issue will have on individual citizens. News framing can have important implications for public opinion, political discourse, and policy-making.
7 Cybercrime can be classified into various categories based on the type of crime committed. Some common categories of cybercrime include hacking, identity theft, phishing, cyberstalking, and cyberbullying. Hacking refers to gaining unauthorized access to computer systems or networks. Identity theft involves stealing personal information such as credit card numbers or social security numbers. Phishing involves using fraudulent emails or websites to trick individuals into revealing personal information. Cyberstalking involves using the internet to harass or intimidate individuals, while cyberbullying involves using the internet to bully or harass other people, often through social media platforms.
8 Media can have both positive and negative effects on well-being. On the one hand, media can provide access to information, entertainment, and social connections that can enhance well-being. On the other hand, media exposure to negative events, violence, and unrealistic body standards can have negative effects on mental health and self-esteem. Media literacy and moderation can help individuals to use media in a positive and healthy way.
9 Mass media can play an important role in health education by providing access to accurate and reliable health information to a wide audience. This can help to promote health behaviors, prevent illness, and improve overall health outcomes. Mass media can be used to deliver health messages through a variety of channels, including television, radio, print media, and digital media. Health campaigns can use media to promote healthy behaviors, such as exercise, healthy eating, and tobacco cessation.
10 Gaming addiction refers to an excessive or compulsive use of video games that can have negative effects on a person's physical and mental health, as well as their social and academic functioning. Gaming addiction is not yet recognized as an official mental disorder, but it is becoming increasingly recognized as a significant public health concern. Gaming addiction can lead to problems such as social isolation, sleep disturbances, poor academic performance, and physical health problems such as obesity and repetitive strain injuries. Treatment for gaming addiction can include cognitive-behavioral therapy, group therapy, and support groups.
