Exploring the impact of media violence

Kelsey Westbury

Chapter 26 in Research Handbook on Violent Crime and Society, 2025, pp 432-444 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: The media serves as a mirror, reflecting societal norms, values and anxieties, while simultaneously shaping public attitudes and behaviors. This dual role underscores the importance of understanding the interplay between media and violence to address its consequences effectively. This chapter provides a historical overview of media representations of violence, tracing key milestones in mass media development and the enduring societal fascination with violent content. It introduces cultivation theory and social learning theory as essential frameworks for analyzing how media influences attitudes, beliefs and behaviors related to violence. Empirical evidence is examined to elucidate the relationship between media violence, violent behavior and fear of crime. The chapter also discusses the public health implications of media violence, including its impact on mental health, community cohesion and societal well-being. By identifying gaps in current research and suggesting future research directions, this chapter aims to deepen the understanding of the media's role in shaping perceptions of violence and to inform strategies for mitigating its negative impacts.

Keywords: Media violence; Public health; Cultivation theory; Social learning; Violent behavior; Media influence (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
ISBN: 9781035317851
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