Introduction
The present dramatic evolution in the media sector has affected how people behave. Violence in media can be defined as media depiction of hostility by an individual against the other with the intention of inflicting harm to them (Anderson, 2004, p. 2). For example, after hours of watching shooting games, an individual might decide to shoot the other in case of a disagreement between them. Model of analysis is how individuals react either mentally, socially or physically to the present media which consequently leads to destruction as a result of unsatisfactory issues (University, 1968, p. 27). In this section, I will scrutinize how the three levels of analysis can help us to understand the effects of media violence on human behavior.
Environmental or Social Level of Analysis
Social-cultural and behavioral perspectives determine how one’s behavior, feelings, and thoughts are shaped by the social and physical environment (University, 1968, p. 25). Several researchers have found out that people who have been exposed to violent media often use violence to deal with issues that the society poses to them. Through their exposure to violent video games and films, they employ violence to solve their differences. The violence can extend to other family members or any other close relative. Human beings can change their institutions and social behaviors to achieve their peace. An excellent example, in this case, is a student who watches crime films, such a student may engage in crime-related activities in future.
Psychological Level of Analysis
This level changes our thoughts and emotions. When people watch or listen to violent media, such as murder films, their behavior, and reactions towards life are affected (University, 1968, p. 25). Attitude and social interactions change when exposed to violent media. Although several people have criticized this, it is not possible for one to see their change in behavior. Children who frequently watch violent movies easily change their mental attitudes and view towards the society. For example, the increase in human social tone or a robust approach to threats which come across their life such as fighting.
Biological Level of Analysis
This revolves around changes to how our body functions. An individual who has been exposed to violent media may experience an increase in heartbeat, blood pressure or brain functioning (University, 1968, p. 43). In violent films, children may experience realistic blood and mild violence. This can influence them towards criminal activities as they have already seen what can happen to them.
Conclusion
Psychologists can use levels of analysis to understand how media violence affects behavior. Through the standards, it is clear that exposure to violent media is harmful to individuals across all ages. It changes brain functionality to allow the affected to express their emotions aggressively. Therefore, we all have a role in keeping an eye on the kind of media our children watch or listen to as they may take the experiences personally and apply them towards their real world. This may highly contribute to more dangerous and violent behaviors towards their friends, relatives or even their education.
References
Anderson, C., 2004. Violence in the media:. Issues in Parenting Education, 24(3053), pp. 1-19.
University, W. S., 1968. The Individual in Society. Commonwealth of Australi, pp. 1-27.
University, W. S., 1968. The science of psychology. Commonwealth of Australia, pp. 13-27.
University, W. S., 1968. Violence in the media does not affect me, but others are at high risk. The 11 Myths of Media Violence, pp. 31-52.
