Effects of Visual Media on viewers' perceptions and attitudes

The Impact of Media on Public Perception - https://thecord.ca/the-impact-of-media-on-public-perception-of-crime-and-criminal-justice/

Visual media shapes viewers' worldviews, beliefs, and behaviours. Visual media affects viewers in several ways:

1. Stereotype Formation and Reinforcement: Visual media shapes stereotypes by depicting specific groups or people. It reinforces or creates stereotypes. Media portrayals of specific racial or ethnic groups may promote preconceptions and prejudice among viewers.

2. Social Comparison and Body Image: Visual media, particularly advertising and entertainment, promotes unrealistic body ideals. These photos might cause social comparison and poor body image views. Body dissatisfaction, poor self-esteem, and eating problems might follow.

3. Consumer Behaviour: Visual media, especially advertising, affects consumer behaviour. Visuals may inspire, persuade, and mould tastes. Visuals connect brands' goods to lives, goals, and values, influencing consumers' purchases.

4. Emotional Response and Empathy: Visual media may elicit powerful emotions. Visuals may evoke empathy, sympathy, or fury, helping viewers relate to the scenes. Emotional involvement may shape viewers' views and social actions.

5. Truth: Visual media blends truth and fantasy. Media may transform photos to suit storylines through special effects and editing. This may confuse and misunderstand viewers' sense of reality.

6. Visual media shapes cultural views and identity: Cultural, traditional, and community representations shape public perception. Visual media may promote or challenge cultural stereotypes, influencing viewers' enjoyment of diverse cultures and identities.

7. Attitudes and Social standards: Visual media may influence viewers' views on gender roles, racial relations, and social standards. Media may reinforce or challenge conventions, affecting viewers' acceptance or rejection. Alternative narratives and viewpoints in visual media may encourage inclusion, diversity, and social change.

Visual media affects perceptions and attitudes. Media literacy and mindful consumption may help viewers become more aware and responsible media consumers.