Desensitisation

• Desensitisation


  Desensitization occurs when repeated exposure to media violence diminishes emotional and physiological responses, such as increased heart rate, blood pressure, and sweating, which are typically linked to the sympathetic nervous system. Initially, playing violent games or watching violent media may provoke negative emotions that inhibit aggressive behavior. Over time, however, as desensitization takes effect—especially in children—emotional reactions decrease, reducing the deterrent effect of violence and increasing the likelihood of aggressive actions in real life.
• Disinhibition (|)


  explains how individuals may behave uncharacteristically while engaging with violent media, such as video games. Suler (2004) identifies three contributing factors: anonymity, adopting a virtual persona (solipsistic introjection), and the absence of law enforcement in the virtual environment (minimization of authority).
• Disinhibition (||)


  In real life, societal norms and psychological barriers, reinforced by social learning theory, discourage violence as a means of conflict resolution. However, exposure to violent media can weaken these restraints, making individuals more likely to display aggressive or antisocial behavior.
• Cognitive priming


  Cognitive priming refers to the process of storing aggressive scenes that may later be triggered in similar situations. These aggressive cues can stimulate aggressive feelings and thoughts. For instance, violent computer games or television shows can serve as ‘scripts’ that are acted out later. Simulation shooting games can also develop the skills needed to use a real gun, leading to its use in real life when faced with a similar situation
• Strength


  Leonard Berkowitz and Joseph Alioto (1973) demonstrated that media portraying aggression as justified retribution can lead to disinhibition of aggressive behavior. In their study, participants who viewed such content delivered longer pretend electrical shocks to a confederate. This suggests that presenting violence as acceptable reduces social restraints, making individuals more likely to act aggressively.