Your Assignment Must Follow These Formatting Requirements

Your Assignment Must Follow These Formatting Requirementsthis Course

Your assignment must follow these formatting requirements: This course requires the use of Strayer Writing Standards. For assistance and information, please refer to the Strayer Writing Standards link in the left-hand menu of your course. Include a cover page containing the title of the assignment, your name, your professor’s name, the course title, and the date. The cover page is not included in the required assignment page length. A Journal Sample [PDF] has been provided for your reference.

No sources are required for this journal. The specific course learning outcome associated with this assignment is: Explain the influence of information accessibility through different forms of media on individual and social norms.

Paper For Above instruction

Sample Journal Paper on Media and Social Norms

Introduction

The rapid proliferation of various media forms has profoundly shaped individual behaviors and social norms. Access to information through television, internet, social media platforms, and print media has altered perceptions, expectations, and standards within societies. This paper explores how different forms of media influence individual choices and societal perceptions, emphasizing the importance of understanding this relationship in contemporary society.

The Role of Media in Shaping Social Norms

Media serves as a powerful vehicle for disseminating cultural values and shaping societal expectations. According to Bandura's social learning theory, individuals tend to imitate behaviors observed in media sources, especially when such behaviors are perceived as rewarding or socially acceptable (Bandura, 1977). For example, exposure to media portrayals of beauty standards influences societal perceptions of attractiveness and self-esteem (Grabe, Ward, & Hyde, 2008). Over time, consistent exposure can normalize certain behaviors, making them part of the social fabric.

The accessibility of information enhances the speed and scope with which social norms can evolve. The internet, in particular, provides a platform for rapid dissemination of ideas, challenging traditional norms and facilitating social change. Movements such as #MeToo and Black Lives Matter gained momentum through online platforms, illustrating how accessible information can influence societal attitudes on critical issues (Neff & Nafus, 2016). This democratization of information empowers individuals to participate actively in shaping norms and values.

Impact on Individual Behavior

Information accessibility via media impacts individual behavior by influencing perceptions, attitudes, and decision-making processes. Social media, for example, offers a space where individuals can learn about diverse perspectives, leading to increased awareness and empathy (Kietzmann et al., 2011). However, it also exposed users to misinformation, which can distort perceptions and reinforce negative stereotypes (Vosoughi, Roy, & Aral, 2018). The dual nature of media thus highlights its capacity to both positively and negatively influence individual behaviors.

Moreover, media-driven ideals often shape personal aspirations and self-image. The portrayal of idealistic lifestyles, physical appearances, and success stories creates benchmarks that individuals may strive to emulate, sometimes leading to detrimental effects such as anxiety or low self-esteem (Fardouly et al., 2015). Conversely, media can also serve as a tool for empowerment, providing access to information that encourages healthy behaviors and social activism.

Media's Role in Transforming Social Norms

The influence of media in transforming social norms is evident in ongoing debates around gender roles, racial equality, and environmental responsibility. For instance, the increased coverage of climate change has fostered a global movement towards sustainability (Hulme, 2010). Social media campaigns have altered perceptions regarding gender roles, promoting gender equality and inclusivity (Grosser & Moon, 2017). These examples demonstrate how accessible information acts as a catalyst for societal change by reshaping collective attitudes.

Nevertheless, the transformative power of media also presents challenges. The spread of misinformation, echo chambers, and sensationalism can hinder social progress and reinforce divisions. The phenomenon of "fake news" exemplifies how misinformation can manipulate perceptions and influence social and political attitudes (Lazer et al., 2018). Therefore, critical media literacy is essential for individuals to navigate the complex media landscape responsibly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, access to information through various media forms significantly influences individual behaviors and social norms. While media can promote positive social change and broaden perspectives, it also carries risks of misinformation and distortion. Understanding the dual impact of media is crucial for fostering an environment where information accessibility effectively supports societal progress and individual well-being. As media continues to evolve, ongoing research and media literacy education are essential for maximizing its benefits and mitigating its risks.

References

• Bandura, A. (1977). Social Learning Theory. Prentice Hall.
• Fardouly, J., Diedrichs, P. C., Vartanian, L. R., & Halliwell, E. (2015). Social Media and Body Image Concerns: Current Research and Future Directions. Body Image, 13, 1-11.
• Grosser, S., & Moon, P. (2017). Gender Power and the Workplace: Intersectionality and Diversity. Sage Publications.
• Grabe, S., Ward, L. M., & Hyde, J. S. (2008). The Role of the Media in Body Image Concerns Among Women: A Meta-Analysis. Journal of Communication, 58(1), 20-41.
• Hulme, M. (2010). Why We Disagree About Climate Change: Understanding Controversy, Inaction and Opportunity. Cambridge University Press.
• Kietzmann, J. H., Hermkens, K., McCarthy, I. P., & Silvestre, B. S. (2011). Social Media? Get Serious! Understanding the Functional Building Blocks of Social Media. Business Horizons, 54(3), 241-251.
• Lazer, D. M. J., et al. (2018). The Science of Fake News. Science, 359(6380), 1094-1096.
• Neff, G., & Nafus, D. (2016). Self-tracking. MIT Press.
• Vosoughi, S., Roy, D., & Aral, S. (2018). The Spread of True and False News Online. Science, 359(6380), 1146-1151.