Audience Theory

 The Hypodermic Needle Model 



The Daily Mail article links to the hypodermic needle model as it explains how playing a game overtime can influence your attitude in the real world. It explained how playing a violent game can make people act in a violent way or have a violent mindset. Therefore, this links to the hypodermic needle model the model explains that if some media is portrayed to the audience, e.g, violence. It can influence the way someone can act and can also be seen as dangerous. 

Someone may criticise this front cover as they call this young boy a violent game addict. However, the audience doesn't know for sure if the game was the cause of this. One reason may be because of his conditions at home, the cover clearly states he lives with his single mother. Therefore, the theory hasn't be tested for definite to know whether the game was the cause of this. 

The two-step flow model

The two-step flow model is the theory that informs the audience about social factors and the importance of them. It also mentions how audiences are influenced by opinion leaders and these are people who control the reactions of the audience towards the media. 

In my opinion, I think TotalBiscuit is an opinion leader and would therefore fit into the two-step flow model. He is an opinion as people listen to him and he can be seen as influential due to his amount of subscribers. 

The Telegraphs article also fits into the two-step flow model theory. It shows that audiences can be influenced by social factors. It also portrays that anyone can be an opinion leader, even musicians. 

Jamal Edwards also fits under the category of an opinion leader, as he's been so successful, from a young age. As he's so successful people will look up to him and be inspired and is therefore an opinion leader. 

Uses and Gratification

Diversion -  The Vampire Diaries

This would fit into the category of diversion, as it's a supernatural series which would help the audience escape reality and the everyday problems they face. It allows the audience to be entertained and not worry about reality for a bit. 

 Personal Identity - TOWIE 

This would go under personal identity as this is a reality programme and the audience might be able to relate to some of the characters. 

Surveillance - BBC NEWS

This is very important to audiences as it informs them about whats going on around the world. It produces useful information which keeps us updated and informed with what's happening.