The Impact of Mass Media Discussion

Last week we discussed the ways in which we define social problems and how our current values and beliefs affect our definitions. This week, think about the impact of mass media and the way we receive our news.

If your source of information suddenly disappeared, where would you go for current events?

• What is the role of media in:
  • a) our awareness of social problems,
  • b) public policy,
  • c) politics,
  • d) service delivery?
• Do you think definitions of social problems will change as societal sources of information change? If so, in what ways?
• How will these changes impact service delivery to individuals, groups, and/or communities?

Resources:

• It’s Time to Confront Student Mental Health Issues Associated with Smartphones (see attachment below)
• HEURISTICS – An Approach to Evaluating News Obtained through Social Media (see attachment below)
• The Association Between Age and Ethics-Related Issues in Using Social Media for HIV Prevention in Peru (see attachment below)
• Behaviorism, functionalism, and mass communications policy (see attachment below)