C3a1 Comparing Charlton et al (2000) and Williams et al (1981)

Question 1

Similarities between Charlton et al and Williams et al

Answer 1

1) both were natural experiments
2) both conducted in real life communities
3) both St Helena and Notel had never had access to broadcast TV before
4) there were variables outside the control of both studies: other children or parent’s behavior
5) both conducted observations to measure aggression
6) both used questionnaires to ask teachers and parents about children’s behavior and viewing habits

Question 2

Differences between Charlton et al and WIlliam et al

Answer 2

1) St Helena has a close knit community with lots of parental control. Notel is mainland town
2) On St Helena, most people knew each other, this didn’t happen in Notel
3) Notel on mainland, and had access to cultural trends, St Helena only has a ferry visit every month to deliver supplies
4) Adults on St Helena could have been reluctant to admit aggressive behavior- negative image of town. The name of Notel was never disclosed- unlikely same thing to happen

Question 3

Conclusion to evaluation of Charlton et al and Williams et al

Answer 3

Children are affected by TV, but parents and community can lessen influence by controlling what they watch and their behavior. Smaller neighborhoods have a stronger sense of this. But, aggression can also occur because of friendship groups, biological factors and triggers in the environment