Aim: How do the media influence our perceptions of the social

world?

Do Now: How many hours per day do you:

Watch TelevisionListen to musicSurf the InternetRead newspapers and magazines

What is your current favorite TV show? How does this program portray:

1.Men

2.Women

3.Minorities

4.The elderly

5.Teenagers

The Media’s Influence Over Our Lives

• http://www.csun.edu/science/health/docs/tv&health.html

• Crime is rampant on television – professions such as police officer, lawyer, and physician are overrepresented

• Dysfunctional families are featured on daytime TV talk shows

Interpretations of Social Scientists• The media contribute to socialization by

displaying models for children to imitate• The underclass is stigmatized• Most adults believe TV is addictive, but deny

they are personally addicted• There is a correlation between aggressive

behavior seen on TV and real life aggression• The media promote accepted social values and

norms• The media perpetuate classism, racism, and

sexism

The Media and the Molding of Perceptions

• According to sociological research: the media portray men as rugged and dominant, women as submissive

• On primetime TV, male characters outnumber females two to one.

• Men are often portrayed in higher status positions

• The elderly and minorities are underrepresented

Think-pair-share:

How do television shows portray the American family? Use any shows past or present to inform your discussion.