On-screen violence is believed to influence behavior in several ways. Here are three key mechanisms through which it may have an effect:
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Desensitization: Repeated exposure to violent images and scenarios can lead to desensitization, where individuals become less sensitive or responsive to real-life violence. This can diminish emotional reactions to violence, making it seem more acceptable or normal. As viewers become desensitized, they may be less likely to empathize with victims of violence, potentially leading to a greater likelihood of aggressive or violent behavior themselves.
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Modeling and Social Learning: According to social learning theory, individuals can learn behaviors through observation and imitation. When people see characters in movies or television shows using violence to solve problems or achieve goals, they may come to view such behavior as a viable option in real life. This modeling effect suggests that particularly impressionable viewers, especially children and adolescents, may adopt aggressive behaviors after seeing them portrayed positively or without consequences on-screen.
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Cognitive Priming: Exposure to violent media can prime people to think about aggression and violence more readily. This means that after watching violent content, individuals might be more likely to interpret ambiguous situations as hostile or to respond aggressively. The cognitive priming effect implies that the thoughts and scripts associated with violence can be activated, making violent responses more likely in situations where a person might feel provoked or threatened.
These mechanisms highlight how on-screen violence might contribute to an individual's attitudes and behaviors towards aggression and conflict in everyday life.