Mean World George Gerbner

• Mean world syndrome - the idea that people are more likely to be afraid of crime than they actually need to be
• The mean world is an exaggerated version of reality, where violence is commonplace
• Gerbner's research showed that viewers were exposed to around 400 violent acts per year on TV
• The mean world is not real, but it can have an impact on how we behave
• Gerbner's research showed that TV news was dominated by violent stories
• TV violence has been linked with aggression and desensitisation
• Desensitised audiences may become less able to empathise with victims of real-life crimes
• This exposure led to desensitisation, as viewers became immune to the violence
• Reality TV has been criticised for promoting negative stereotypes and perpetuating prejudice against certain groups
• TV dramas also contributed to the mean world effect, with shows like CSI portraying extreme levels of violence
• Desensitisation occurs when someone becomes less sensitive or responsive to something over time
• Viewers are more likely to accept violence if they see it as necessary
• Violence on screen is often portrayed as exciting or glamorous, which encourages imitation
• Violence on screen is often portrayed as being justified or rewarded
• Critics argue that reality shows often exploit vulnerable people or those from disadvantaged backgrounds
• Others suggest that reality TV reinforces traditional gender roles and expectations.
• Media coverage can contribute to public fear about crime rates, even if they are not accurate or representative.
• Coverage of high profile cases such as OJ Simpson's trial created an impression that black men were dangerous criminals