Answer to Question #263992 in Sociology for ria

Question

Describe and apply the following theoretical explanations (e.g. hypodermic syringe model, inoculation model, two-step flow model) of the relationship between the media and its audiences and how it manifested during the pandemic:

Answer 1

The hypodermic syringe model believes that the media can have a direct and immediate effect on the audience. This model sees the audience as a 'homogeneous mass' (all the same), as passive and believing what they see in the media without questioning the content.

Inoculation model theory is a model for building resistance to persuasion attempts by exposing people to arguments against their beliefs and giving them counterarguments to refute attacks. The theory, therefore, offers mechanisms by which communication is used to help people defend their beliefs.

The two-step flow model of communication, the theory of communication that proposes that interpersonal interaction has a far stronger effect on shaping public opinion than mass media outlets. Media were thought to significantly influence people's decisions and behaviors.