Psychology in Society Essay

Introduction

Antisocial behavior is reflected in actions or ways which may cause harm or become a source of distress for individuals that are a part of the household. A key characteristic of antisocial behavior is that that is persistent and continuous in nature and this distinction helps in highlighting the difference between dispute or quarrels that take place between two parties and actual anti-social behaviour which is alarming in nature (Moffitt, 2018). Facets of antisocial behavior include swearing, cursing, fighting, intimidation, noise, harassment, verbal abuse, bullying and shouting. 

Moreover, there are different actions which may also be categorized as antisocial behavior as they go against the norms set by society.  These behaviors include reckless driving, polluting the neighborhood or the community by dumping trash, vandalism, and abusive behavior. Individuals that exhibit signs of antisocial behavior typically have a history of engaging in actions that are irresponsible or impulsive in nature. psychological theory indicates that antisocial behavior operates on a spectrum whereby some individuals may be on the lower end of the spectrum by displaying bad behavior during less frequently while others tend to engage in antisocial behavior on a regular basis and eventually commit serious offences or crimes. 

Research indicates that dramatic childhood experiences may have a role to play in promoting antisocial behavior (Moffitt, 2018). Therefore, children who have been exposed to abuse or neglect at the hands of their parents or primary caregiver are more likely to exhibit traits of antisocial behavior. Other factors which contribute to the onset of antisocial behavior include challenging family situations such as poor economic conditions and a low standard of living. A child who has lived in a household where one or both parents suffer from alcoholism is more likely to exhibit anti-social behavior.  Therefore, it can be stated that the exhibition of antisocial traits and behavior is associated with several factors including social, psychological, and interpersonal aspects. 

The purpose of this essay is to present a critical analysis off the influence of media on antisocial behaviors. Media includes different modes of mass communication including digital media such as the Internet and social media platforms in addition to video games, publishing, and broadcasting channels. The analysis evaluates arguments in support of the idea that media perpetuates antisocial behavior while examining perspectives which indicate that the media does not have a significant role to play in the demonstration of antisocial behaviors.

Discussion

There is significant scholarly literature and evidence which indicates that media perpetuates the onset of antisocial behaviors. According to a study conducted by Espinosa and Clemente (2010), exposure to violent and sensitive media can impact the cognitive behavior of an individual. The primary contributor to antisocial behavior in this case are video games and television. when an individual becomes exposed to violence through these media channels, they are likely to over learn aggressive behaviors and reinforce behavioral structures which encourage hostile displays. This aligns with the social learning theory of Bandura (2001) which states that behaviour can be learned through observation or imitation. 

Accordingly, such individuals are also readily willing to accept violent behaviors and view them in a positive light. researchers argue that the reinforcement of reinforcement of violent behaviors through these media channels contributes to desensitization which means that consumers of violent media no longer view it as damaging to society. The research also indicates that a continued exposure to violent forms of media has the potential to damage an adolescent’s ability to understand anything knowledge though ramifications of their actions. this concept suggests that when an individual continuously becomes exposed to violent symbols through media they suppress the ability to understand and acknowledge the feelings and emotions of other people. Owing to this reason they can no longer understand or acknowledge how their behavior adversely influences or impacts other people. 

In their research, Plante and Anderson (2019) have shed light on the polarizing debate regarding the impact of violent media on the minds and behaviours of the youth and adolescents. The authors of the research state that it is possible to link violent media with the emergence of violent and antisocial behavior as a risk factor rather than a direct contributor to this phenomenon. Plante and Anderson (2019) note that it is imperative to present a comprehensive and well-rounded respective about this situation by acknowledging that media is indeed a risk factor however there are other elements which me cumulatively influence the onset of antisocial behavior. This is reiterated in the research conducted by Bushman and Anderson (2015) who state that violent media is a critical risk factor in the onset of violent behaviour rather than the cause itself.

A psychological framework which can be used to describe antisocial behavior through exposure to media is that of the general aggression model. This model considers the different influences of situational aspects and personal variables on the onset of anti social behavior such as aggression. the model states that there are several elements which can be linked to the display of antisocial behavior including angry feeling and a heightened level of physiological arousal. These aspects cumulatively influence the decision-making process of an individual. Prior research on this matter has indicated that exposure to media elements which show aggression or violence has the potential spur hostile appraisals (Anderson and Bushman, 2018). However, in line with the psychological theory it can be noted that antisocial behavior is not exclusively linked to media exposure but is an amalgamation of different biological social and cultural factors. 

In the light of psychological theory, another framework which can be considered in this case is that of addiction and whether the varying levels of exposure to certain media can increase the probability of displaying antisocial behavior. A research conducted by Ma (2011) found that since the emergence of the Internet in the digital age, the proportion of individuals who have resorted to excessive Internet usage has increased which carries significant risks with regards to the youth’s exposure to violence (Media Violence Commission, 2012). The research indicates that the continuous and increased use of digital media and the Internet is comparable to social behaviour which is demonstrated in daily life. The psychological theory which can be applied to understand this is Kohlberg’s theory of moral development. The theory states that when a person utilizes the Internet to engage in illegal or illicit behavior, then this form of media can promote antisocial behavior. there are other channels through which the excessive use of the Internet can lead to antisocial behavior this includes cyber bullying, cheating, and gambling. Given the excessive scope of Internet addiction among the youth and adolescence this form of media can be recognized as one of the leading sources for promoting antisocial behavior.

A study conducted by Erreygers et al. (2017) highlighted a different perspective by stating that the increasing use of digital communication platforms and channels of media can in fact lead to the promotion of prosocial behavior by allowing people to freely express themselves and engage with like minded individuals. the research indicated that users who utilized the Internet as a channel for communication and social engagement demonstrated greater levels of pro social behavior compared to users that use the Internet for gaming purposes. the expression of feelings and emotions was also defined as a positive outlet for users to express themselves. 

However, Wilson (2020) sheds light on the growing presence of reclusive Internet users who prefer to use social media as an escape and in turn may resort to the development of antisocial behaviors. These reclusive Internet users employ digital media to transition from their daily life by participating in micro communities. Nonetheless, the scope of this research is limited because it does not highlight whether this community of digital media users eventually resorts towards antisocial behavior which can be harmful or alarming for other members of the community. 

Conclusion 

Based on the assessment conducted in this essay it can be stated that antisocial behavior is the accumulation of various factors including social, cultural, and psychological elements. While there is significant research to indicate that the consumption of certain media can influence the onset of antisocial behaviors, it is important to note that media may potentially be one of the risk factors in this case. Therefore, the degree to which media can influence antisocial behavior in an individual depends upon their social and family history and whether they have been exposed to other risk factors as a part of the family or society. 

Moreover, by applying the psychological theory of addiction to excessive Internet usage, it can be noted that individuals with a higher level of exposure to certain forms of media are more likely to resort to antisocial behavior and develop desensitization towards actions that are violent or harmful to others. The assessment of scholarly sources in this essay also indicates that the purpose and intent of using media also dictates whether it contributes to the onset of antisocial behavior. 

For example, people that use the Internet for gaming purposes maybe more likely to become exposed to violent elements that promote antisocial behavior. To enhance the scope of research regarding the influence of media on antisocial behaviors, it is important to understand how exposure to certain types of media can influence the actions of a specific demographic group. Accordingly, the positive role of digital media in promoting prosocial and positive behavior should be examined to identify how these consequences can be replicated for other channels of mass media.