Role of Media in Defining Social Problems

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the role of media in defining social problems, the influence of media, and different sociological perspectives on these issues.

What role does media play in defining social issues as social problems?

Media helps in shaping perceptions and framing issues as social problems.

What type of questions do sociologists ask regarding media influence?

Sociologists inquire about how media impacts the understanding and representation of social problems.

What are the two dimensions of social problems in the context of media?

Objective and subjective dimensions.

Who are moral entrepreneurs?

Individuals or groups who influence public perceptions of social problems through media and advocacy.

What does claims making entail?

The process by which individuals or groups generate support for social problems through media.

How does media influence perceptions of crime?

Media shapes and distorts public understanding of crime trends and statistics.

What is the difference between media reports of crime and actual trends?

Media reports often exaggerate or sensationalize crime compared to actual crime statistics.

What three journalistic practices influence reports of crime waves?

Sensationalism, focusing on high-profile cases, and selective reporting.

What are media frames?

Media frames are specific ways of presenting information that shape how audiences understand issues.

How do sponsor activities influence media?

Sponsorship can influence content and priorities in media reporting.

What are culturally resonant themes?

Themes that align with societal values and knowledge to engage audiences.

How does entertainment media influence social problems?

It shapes public perceptions and attitudes toward social issues through storytelling.

What is a moral panic?

A widespread fear or concern that emerges about a social problem, often exaggerated by media.

To whom are media more likely to focus attention when reporting crime?

Media often focus on marginalized groups or minority communities.

What kinds of media activism occur around social problems?

Efforts to raise awareness, advocate for change, and challenge media portrayals.

What are the nine media phobias?

Concerns relating to societal fears about media influence and its effects.

Were the media phobias warranted?

This is often debated, depending on empirical evidence and scholarly perspectives.

What were the Payne Fund Studies?

Research that examined the effects of movies on youth behavior and values.

What did Blumer find about movies and delinquency?

Blumer concluded that there is a significant relationship between exposure to movies and delinquent behavior.

Who was Fredric Wertham, and what was his influence?

A psychiatrist whose book criticized comic books and influenced public opinion on their dangers.

What is the relationship between violent television and aggression according to studies?

Many studies show a correlation between violent television content and increased aggression in viewers.

What other effects does violent television have according to research?

Research indicates it can lead to desensitization and distorted perceptions of reality.

What is mean world syndrome?

A phenomenon where heavy exposure to media violence leads people to perceive the world as dangerous.

How do media influence youth smoking?

Media often glamorizes smoking, making it more appealing to youth.

How do media influence obesity?

Media often promotes unhealthy food choices and sedentary lifestyles, contributing to obesity.

How do media influence eating disorders?

Media sets unrealistic body standards that can lead to the development of eating disorders.

What is the cult of thinness?

A cultural obsession with extreme thinness as the ideal body shape.

How do emerging social problems relate to new media technologies?

New media technologies can amplify and reshape discussions around emerging social issues.

How do Functionalism, Conflict Theory, and Symbolic Interactionism understand media in society?

Each perspective offers a different view: Functionalism sees media as a social stabilizer, Conflict Theory as a tool for power dynamics, and Symbolic Interactionism focuses on individual interpretation of media.

What contemporary theories exist about media in relation to social problems?

Contemporary theories explore various perspectives on media's influence, including critical media theories and social construction theories.