Media Psychology ((4 Credits))

Catalog description

This course engages a comprehensive look at the foundations, history, methodology, and contemporary issues facing the field of media psychology. The history of how media has served to shape the history of western culture with respect to individual and group identities is emphasized with special attention to issues of social justice. Social Justice issues are addressed as they affect various identities including race, ethnicity, religion, gender, mental and physical disability, brain illness, socioeconomic status, and sexuality. The media represent complex social structures that both create and perpetuate the dynamics of power, privilege, oppression, and opportunity. Included is a discussion of the ways that media can also serve to solve problems through equitable representation, access, and participation in various media channels. Current research on the areas of parasocial theory, social media, and the effects of media on development are emphasized. Differing uses and effects throughout the lifespan are discussed with a recognition that media plays a different role in childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and for the aging adult. An emphasis on media across cultures is included. Prerequisites: Introduction to Psychology or equivalent.