Fundamentals of Media Effects - Softcover

Jennings Bryant; Susan Thompson; Bruce W. Finklea

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1577667859 ISBN 13: 9781577667858

Publisher: Waveland Pr Inc, 2012

Synopsis

Mass media's potential to influence audience beliefs and behavior is a subject that has long fascinated scholars and the general public. The ongoing interest and concern are reflected in the common tendency to blame "the media" for many of society's problems. This extensively revised and updated edition cuts through popular notions of presumed effects to provide a balanced, informed, up-to-date treatment of the media effects literature. The clear, compelling presentation, illuminated by dozens of new photographs, equips readers with a fundamental understanding of the history, theoretical underpinnings, and current status of media effects research knowledge that will help them navigate in a media-saturated environment.

Several outstanding elements distinguish the Second Edition of Fundamentals of Media Effects. New chapters explore the impact of computer/video games, the effects of the Internet and social networking sites, and the way mobile communication devices have transformed the way we live. An extensive new chapter on children's educational television describes the considerable body of research that supports positive effects like language development and flexible-thinking skills. Framing studies are covered in a separate chapter where they are distinguished both theoretically and experimentally from agenda setting and priming. Finally, the authors provide overviews of classic and current research studies in an invaluable feature called "Research Spotlight," which enable readers to envision how theories translate into research.

Not-for-sale instructor resource material available to college and university faculty only; contact publisher directly.

About this title

Review:

"I like the comprehensiveness of theories in the text. It is clearly written, interesting to read, and has up-to-date examples as well as a good student price." --Reed Smith, Georgia Southern University

"A proven, state-of-the-art overview of current thinking in media effects. It is an accessible but detailed book appropriate for undergraduates." --Bruce Drushel, Miami University

"Nice update! I like the organization of the material." --Glenn G. Sparks, Purdue University

About this edition

• Publisher: Waveland Pr Inc
• Publication date: 2012
• ISBN 10: 1577667859
• ISBN 13: 9781577667858
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 2
• Number of pages: 410