final exam Flashcards
theme of the social dilemma
that social media platforms are designed to manipulate user behavior for profit, with negative consequences on mental health, society, and democracy. The platforms prioritize engagement (which leads to addiction), ultimately profiting from our attention and data.
The like button (social dilemma)
Designed to be addictive, it creates a feedback loop that reinforces users’ engagement and dopamine release, making them come back for more likes and attention.
Ben (social dilemma)
He becomes hooked on his phone, checking it constantly, losing track of time, and even becoming increasingly isolated from his family. This shows the addictive nature of social media and how it disturbs young people’s ability to engage meaningfully with their surroundings.
Ben’s growing isolation: As Ben continues to scroll through social media, his relationships with his family and friends start to deteriorate. He becomes more withdrawn, which is a typical symptom of social media addiction.
Emotional impact: He also experiences anxiety and frustration as he compares himself to others on social media, which contributes to his growing sense of insecurity.
Little girl (social dilemma)
Her screen time: The little girl’s behavior exemplifies the typical experiences of children who are constantly on their devices. She spends a lot of time scrolling through Instagram-like platforms, and her mood and self-worth are impacted by the content she consumes.
Influence on self-esteem: She becomes more and more impacted by what she sees on social media—idealized images, beauty standards, and comparisons to others—causing her to feel inadequate and leading to anxiety.
The impact of algorithms: The algorithms on social media platforms cater content to users’ behaviors, leading them down a rabbit hole of content that can distort their perception of reality. In the case of the little girl, this is shown to directly affect her happiness, her interactions with others, and her overall mental health
Concluding thoughts of the social dilemma
urging viewers to consider the ethical implications of the social media industry. The filmmakers suggest the need for regulation, better user education, and accountability from the companies that run these platforms. It stresses that users must take control of their relationship with social media, being mindful of how these platforms shape their lives
the algorithm (social dilemma)
Social media platforms can manipulate user behavior without the user even realizing it. They use algorithms to track and predict user behavior, showing them tailored content that keeps them hooked. The documentary highlights the unintentional consequences, including the rise in mental health issues, especially among younger users
ways social media could be different
If social media companies had considered the long-term consequences of their platforms, they could have implemented more ethical practices, such as prioritizing user well-being over engagement and profit. They could have also integrated more transparency into how algorithms work and how personal data is used
Positive impacts of social media
brings people together, connects people
negative and unintended consequences of social media
Social media addicts us; it has a negative impact on mental health, happiness, connection, and loneliness. What is truth? Does truth matter?
how do social media companies make money?
advertisements
what is the cycle that keeps us engaged on social media?
Engagement → Addiction → More money
how could disinformation be limited on social media?
Through media literacy and fact-checking, as well as stricter regulations and guidelines for social media platforms
key elements for crisis PR
Transparency, Act quickly, Take responsibility, Don’t make it worse, Apology, Empathy, Leadership, Action
What is the idea behind Crisis → Opportunity in crisis management?
A crisis can be turned into an opportunity for the company to regain trust and improve its image through effective management
the importance of the apology
An apology can either make or break the reputation of a company, and it is crucial to repair the relationship with the public
What impact does social media have on a crisis?
Social media can amplify the crisis, making it more visible, but it also provides an opportunity for a company to address the situation publicly and manage its response.
Key elements of a PR plan
- Overview
📝 What’s going on?
A summary of the situation or issue.
Sets the stage for why the PR plan is needed. - Goals
🎯 What do you want to achieve?
Big-picture outcomes you’re aiming for. - Key Messaging
💬 What are you going to say?
The main points you want people to hear and remember.
Should be clear, consistent, and reflect your values. - Audiences
👥 Who are you talking to?
The specific groups you’re trying to reach. Could be customers, media, employees, investors, etc. - Tactics & Deliverables
🛠️ How will you reach them?
The specific tools and content you’ll use. Examples: press releases, social media posts, interviews, events. - Research
🔍 What do you need to know first?
Info you gather before acting.
Could be market research, audience analysis, or understanding public opinion. - Evaluation
📊 Did it work?
How you’ll measure success.
Data could be collected through media coverage, engagement, or surveys. - Projected Results
📈 What do you expect to happen?
A realistic idea of the outcome.
Helps guide expectations and track progress.
what happened in the United Airlines case study
: A man was dragged off the plane, which created a negative public image for the company
how was the united airlines crisis handled?
The CEO made foul comments, and it took three times to issue a real apology
What happened in the This Is Us/Crockpot case?
The Crockpot brand was blamed for a fire in This Is Us, creating a negative image for the company.
How did Crockpot reassure the public after the incident?
They reassured the public that the Crockpot would not burn the house down. crisis to opportunity
What happened at Starbucks
Two people of color were arrested at Starbucks, leading to a negative public image for the company.
How did Starbucks handle the crisis?
They shut down all stores for training, and the CEO took full responsibility for the incident.
What was the Johnson & Johnson/Tylenol case about?
Poor packaging led to a poison scandal with Tylenol bottles
How did Johnson & Johnson respond to the crisis?
They changed the packaging, took products off the shelf, and prioritized safety over profit
What was the BP oil spill crisis?
An oil spill led to environmental damage and the deaths of workers, creating a major crisis for BP.
How did BP handle the oil spill crisis?
The CEO mishandled it by making inappropriate comments and lying about the situation. His infamous remark was: “I want my life back, I’m tired of this.”
What happened in the UTC (Chris Malone) crisis?
Chris Malone made a racist post that could damage the image of the school.
How did the school handle the crisis at UTC?
The school fired him and publicly stated they would not tolerate such behavior
