Albert Bandura's Media Effects Theory

 Albert Bandura was a well-known psychologist around the world. He coined the term "Media Effects," which refers to the belief that the media can directly "implant" ideas into the minds of viewers. He also felt that audiences learn attitudes, emotional responses, and new ways of behaving through watching others. The 'Media Consequences' hypothesis of Albert Bandura has been extended to video games and the effects that violent games can have on their users. He felt that media portrayals of transgressive behaviour, such as violence or physical hostility, can influence people to mimic similar behaviours.

CopyCat Theory

 The copycat theory relates to something which is publicized in the media that creates a lot of attention, which results in other people imitating or copying this. Well known examples of this are copycat murders, suicides and other violent acts that come with no motive other than attention, caused by the same acts seen in the media, be it film or books etc.

According to research on copycat crimes, the majority of people who commit crimes imitate what they see in the media, particularly on the news or in violent movies. The majority of these individuals have criminal records, serious mental health issues, or a history of violence.

While viewing a movie is frequently associated with negative behaviour, little study has been conducted to back up this claim. It is a theory propagated by the media rather than research, for example, the Power Rangers kids will begin copying the stunts because they want to be super heroes.

I still see my brother (age 11) imitate the fighting scenes from the shows he watches and even purchases toys that resemble the weapons shown in the films.