In this issue of Connections, we examine the ways in which stereotypes and prejudice surface in media, and discuss ways in which media literate citizens can become agents for positive social change. We explore dehumanizing representations of the Other. In our second article, we investigate the connections between use of stereotypes in television news and the social capital of communities.
We survey media violence research, examine the debates that make media violence a “hot” topic, and explain why media literacy education is a game- changing strategy which re-frames the terms of debate.
We discuss the four effects of media violence, and review recent media effects research, as well as research supporting media literacy as an educational intervention. In our second article, we apply theories of audience response to violent media to the American action film. And we examine the possibility that media producers may be shaping audience views of what constitutes realistic media violence. Also Conducting a Close Analysis of a media text teaches fundamental skills for media literacy.
We explore the significance of the meteoric rise of direct-to-consumer drug advertising, and identify the strategies which drug companies use to increase physician prescriptions of their products. Also includes a look at how pharmaceutical advertising—like advertising for any other consumer product--encourages us to believe that prescription drugs will transform our lives.
Most researchers agree that children are able to understand the persuasive intent of advertising by the age of 8. But that doesn’t mean they arrive at that age with the media literacy skills they need to adequately respond to the sophisticated strategies food advertisers use to draw their attention.
Advertising sends contradictory messages to young people about food, dieting and fashion. We look at a recent survey regarding teen girls and their attitudes toward media and fashion. We also report on new research from the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media on the representation of women in family films.
In this issue, we offer a wide-ranging update on advocacy, scholarship and resources on media and body image issues. Includes an interview with CSUN professor Dr. Bobbie Eisenstock.