Theories Of Media Language

Semiotics

The study of signs and how meaning is communicated through texts.

Signification

The process through which signs convey meaning.

Narratology

The study of narrative structure and how it affects the perception of stories.

Equilibrium

A state of balance within a narrative before disruptions occur.

Genre Theory

The study of how genres are defined by conventions and variations.

Structuralism

A theoretical approach that focuses on underlying structures in texts to produce meaning.

Postmodernism

A perspective that questions the boundaries between the real world and mediated representations.

Representation

The production of meaning through language and signs.

Stereotyping

The process of reducing individuals or groups into simplistic traits, often due to power imbalances.

Identity Theory

The concept that media plays a crucial role in the construction of personal and social identities.

Postcolonial Theory

An exploration of the effects of colonialism and imperialism on contemporary race and ethnicity.

Feminist Theory

The study of how gender is constructed and represented through discourse within media.

Media Industries Theory

The exploration of how media is driven by profit motives and the concentration of ownership.

Regulation Theory

The examination of the balance between consumer interests and the protection of citizens in media.

Cultural Industries Theory

A focus on how media companies minimize risks and maximize audiences through various strategies.

Media Effects Theory

The idea that media can directly influence audience attitudes and behavior.

Cultivation Theory

The concept that repeated media exposure shapes audience perceptions of reality.

Reception Theory

The study of how audiences decode and interpret media messages.

Fandom Theory

The examination of how fans actively engage with and reshape media texts.

‘End of Audience’ Theory

The idea that digital technology transforms consumers into active participants in media creation and sharing.