Media Violence Influences Hostile Behavior

Violence in the media is often blamed for escalating aggression in real life, and many studies show a link between exposure to graphic confrontation in the media and hostile behavior. In 2000, six leading medical groups, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, wrote to Congress on the issue. They agreed “viewing entertainment violence can lead to increases in aggressive attitudes, values, and behaviors.” (Congressional Public Health Summit)

The conclusions drawn by these medical organizations are supported by field research. In an experiment designed to test how students responded to violent movies and video games, James B. Weaver and Dolf Zillman found those who saw graphic films were more likely to respond aggressively later, even without provocation (145). This led them to believe there is a connection between media and real-life violence, and the effects of the exposure do not subside right away. This means a consumer’s behavior can be impacted by their media choices long after the film ends, even if they are not aware of the effects. Further, a meta-analysis of more than 200 studies supports the thesis of a strong connection between media and hostility. George Comstock and Haejung Paik found a significant correlation on media violence and children's' behavior (516). This is critical, as their findings come from looking at many others.

There is plenty of scientific evidence demonstrating an association between violent films and behavior, but more studies are needed. Further research on whether those who have actually committed violent acts in real life were influenced by media consumption of hostile images would be beneficial to this field.

Works Cited

Congressional Public Health Summit. Joint Statement on the Impact of Entertainment Violence on Children. N.p., 26 July 2000. Web. 21 Oct. 2013.

Paik, Haejung, and George Comstock. "The Effects of Television Violence on Antisocial Behavior: A Meta-Analysis." Communication Research 21.4 (1994): 516-46. Web. 20 Oct. 2013.

Zillmann, Dolf, and James B. Weaver. “Effects of Prolonged Exposure to Gratuitous Media Violence on Provoked and Unprovoked Hostile Behavior.” Journal of Applied Social Psychology 29.1 (1999): 145-165.