COMM506

039124

This course examines the theoretical and empirical connections between media violence (e.g., violence in television shows, films, video games, pornography, etc.) and societal violence. In order to fully understand these connections, this course will begin by examining the nature of aggressive behavior its development, including situational and individual factors. Next, the research regarding violent media exposure to short-term and long-term increases in aggressive behavior as well as the processes that explain these increases will be examined. Finally, societal and individual approaches to controlling and/or mitigating the effects of media violence will be explored.

Graduate students will complete all assignments as listed for undergraduates. In addition, graduate students will research and propose an empirical research project relating to violence in the media. This research project must be approved by the instructor. The proposal will include a literature review, prospective methods, anticipated results, limitations, and a general discussion section. The proposal must be of a quality to be submitted and approved by the IRB for data collection. The literature review in particular must be of a quality to be submitted to a national convention or a communication-relevant peer-reviewed academic journal.

GRD - Regular Grades A, B, C, D, E

Graduate

COMM406