Media Influences - Evaluations Flashcards
How did Weisz and Earls (1995) support desensitization as an explanation for the media’s impact on aggressive behavior?
Weisz and Earls (1995) conducted a study where participants viewed films depicting various types of aggression. Results showed that, after viewing aggressive films, males were more accepting of interpersonal violence and rape myths, more attracted to sexual aggression, less sympathetic toward the rape trial victim, and less likely to judge the defendant as guilty of rape. This supported desensitization as an explanation for how the media can increase acceptance of aggressive behaviors.
What is the ecological validity issue associated with research on the effects of media on aggression?
The issue with research on the effects of media on aggression, such as Weisz and Earls (1995), is ecological validity. Most studies are conducted in laboratory settings, measuring aggression levels through questionnaires or subsequent behavior towards confederates. This raises concerns about whether the measured violence would occur in a ‘real-world’ setting, where societal norms and potential consequences could inhibit aggressive responses.
How did Berkowitz and Alioto (1973) contribute to the understanding of aggression in response to viewed aggression?
Berkowitz and Alioto (1973) conducted a laboratory experiment where participants who saw a film depicting aggression as vengeance (revenge) gave more (fake) electric shocks of longer duration to a confederate. They proposed that aggression is more likely to occur if the viewed aggression is seen as an acceptable response, and disinhibition is more likely to occur.
What practical application of the understanding of disinhibition is mentioned in the passage?
The passage mentions the American Army using games as a recruiting tool. Recruiting individuals with an interest in violence and aggression and a disinhibited response to aggression is seen as beneficial for future soldiers. Soldiers in a war situation may need to behave aggressively, so having individuals who respond aggressively as the norm is considered advantageous for their survival and the protection of others.
How did Fischer and Greitemeyer (2006) demonstrate the cognitive priming effect of aggressive song lyrics?
Fischer and Greitemeyer (2006) found that participants exposed to aggressive song lyrics about women were more likely to give higher levels of hot chili sauce to female confederates than those who heard neutral lyrics. The study also revealed that participants exposed to misogynistic lyrics recalled more negative attributes of women and reported higher levels of aggression towards women. This research demonstrated the cognitive priming effect of aggressive song lyrics on subsequent aggressive behavior.
