Media influence on deviant behavior in middle school students
- UNCW Author/Contributor (non-UNCW co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
- Adrian D. Pearson (Creator)
- Institution
- The University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW )
- Web Site: http://library.uncw.edu/
Abstract: In recent years, there has been growing concern over the possible influence of
aggressive and sexually-explicit media on children and teenagers (Gore, 1987). It is
believed that graphic depictions of violence, disrespect of women, and the glamorization
of drug use are fostering similar behavior in the school-aged population. This anti-social
subject matter is presented in movies, on television (programs and music videos), the
internet, in the lyrics of popular music, and in video games. A generation ago, families
would not have tolerated the sex and violence presented to children. The questions
remains, have the behavior problems of America’s youth increased over the past ten to
twenty years? And is there a correlation between an increase in media presentations of
sex and violence to children, and an increase in public tolerance or ignorance of graphic
adult themes presented to children?
This thesis addresses the possible effects of exposure to various forms of violent
and anti-social media as a significant factor contributing to anti-social and disruptive
behaviors in middle school students in the school setting. The thesis also provides an
overview of other factors identified in a review of relevant literature. These factors
include lack of familial support, poor self-esteem and external locus of control. In
addition, the thesis describes a study conducted with middle school students who have
varying disciplinary records. The results of this study indicate that negative media, as a
single factor, does not appear to be sufficient to account for anti-social or disruptive
behavior of these students at school.
Media influence on deviant behavior in middle school students
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Created on 1/1/2009
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Additional Information
- Publication
- Thesis
- A Thesis Submitted to the University North Carolina Wilmington in Partial Fulfillment Of the Requirements for the Degree of Master of School Administration
- Language: English
- Date: 2009
- Keywords
- Classroom management, Deviant behavior, Public opinion, School discipline
- Subjects
- School discipline
- Deviant behavior
- Classroom management
- Public opinion