A Conceptual Framework for Examining Adolescent Identity, Media Influence and Social Development Blake Te’Neil Lloyd Prepared by: Kath Casey Martha Muryanto [20190255]

Presentation Outline Introduction Background/Objectives Theoretical framework Suggested framework Further Study/Research recommendations Strengths of the article Weaknesses of the article Conclusion Discussion

Why we chose this article Both Martha and I are interested in the influence of media on the development of adolescents Martha has a friend that is consumed by the media negatively I work with students are strongly influenced by the media from how they act, what they wear and their goals in life. They have superficial reasons for their selection of role models. We both chose this article and that’s why we’re presenting it together. (Thanks to wikispace.com for making it easier! )

Background to research Development of adolescent identity External influences on adolescent development Influence of mass media devices on adolescent development Increase of media on the social development of adolescents (how they act) Change in the study of adolescents Need for a comprehensive model that closely considers aspects of the 21st Century. Theories of mass media are embedded in the origins of sociology Adolescents attracted to forms of mass media - assist to understand their environment

Objectives of the article Offer a theoretical understanding of adolescent consumption of media Review of mass communication theory, development theory and ecological theory. Linkages between media exposure and adolescent development (social competence and identity formation). Consideration of positive and negative aspects of adolescent cognition and behaviours.

Theories First theories of mass communication (S-R) Brofenbrenner’s ecological perspective: Behaviour Four major systems of behaviour including: Microsystem Mesosystem Exosystem Macrosystem Identity and adolescent relationship

Theorists continued….. Blos’ Sullivan, Cooley and Mead’s Elkind “Character” refers to “identity” Four challenges to get to adolescent stage Sullivan, Cooley and Mead’s Interpersonal relationship Three modes of experiences Elkind Adolescents expectations Adolescent egocentrism

A few more theories…. Erikson’s identity formation Stages Identity Relationship between media and identity Ethnic identity Cooley and Mead’s symbolic Interactionist Theory Comparison between theories The development of ideas toward a focus on the processes that can account for human development across settings is a major step toward offering more precision regarding how macrosystem attitudes might influence individuals.

Recap of the theories…. Behaviour : a function of the interaction between the person and the environment Human behaviour in context: situational, interpersonal, sociological, cultural, historical, and, of course, theoretical Bronfenbrenner’s multiple layers of contextual influences Blo’s theory Sullivan, Cooley and Mead’s interpersonal relationship Elkind’s expectations and egocentrism Erikson’s identity formation theory Ethnic Identity Cooley and Mead’s symbolic interactionist Recognize the multiple layers of contextual influences on child development. Microsystem : where interactions occur between the developing person and the environment. The most proximal level of context to the individual. Typical components of a microsystem for an adolescent include interpersonal relationships with family members, a peer network, and other social groups such as neighbours. Mesosystem: An example of this level of ecology might be the linkage between home and school. Furthermore, these interwoven relationships can be supportive of each microsystem or in opposition to each microsystem. For instance, Muuss (1988, p. 304) described an “impoverished mesosystem” in which parents are not familiar with their adolescent child's peer group. Within the exosystem, the adolescent does not directly participate in these interactions; however, decisions made at this level of context often greatly affect the adolescent. For example, interactions that occur within a parent's place of employment often have a significant impact on the microsystem level of the family. The macrosystem is described as a broad societal blueprint that contains the core structures and values that compose a particular culture. Features of the macrosystem include political, religious, and educational values; health practices; appropriate standards for behavior and appearance; and roles according to age, gender, and ethnicity. These levels of context simultaneously affect the individual and interact with one another.

AIMSS framework What does it stand for? AIMSS: An integrated Framework for examining Identity, Media and Socio-cognitive Schema. Cognitive responses from adolescents to mass media Framework could assist further research (discuss later) Application of developmental theory Preventative intervention Analysis of pro-social messages to adolescents from the media

Components of AIMSS framework Theoretical Perspectives Analysis of interaction between components Application of AIMSS to adolescents Social competence Cognitive process What if scenarios Considerations of socio-cognitive schemas Proactive Reactive Reactive coping methods

Further research/study considerations Theoretical frameworks Hypothetical situation Four considerations outlined by the author Development of instruments Development theory Conceptualisation of key developmental tasks Study of study who identify pro-social influence of media.

Stay focussed…..not long to go.

Summary/ Conclusion Considerations of theoretical frameworks Over time, mass communication theories change. Several researchers believe that adolescent general feelings of well being are influenced by: Social development Biological development Cognitive development Study of adolescent development has moved from a narrow focus to a study of different developmental processes

Strengths Influences of changing environment Considerations of the broad perspectives of adolescence Consideration of the rapid advancement of mass communication Balanced consideration of positive and negative influences of mass media on adolescent development Appropriate versus inappropriate behaviours.

Weaknesses Generalisation of adolescence Importance of gender considerations – Erika Frydenberg (1997) Considerations of the idea of ‘self’ – James E. Cote (2002) Theoretical and hypothetical – specific considerations for research

References: Blake, Te’Neil Lloyd (2002) A conceptual framework for examining adolescent identity, media influence, and social development, Review of General Psychology, 6(1): 73-91. Picture is taken from http://www.rachelsblog.co.uk/wp- content/uploads/2008/11/portrait-template1.jpg

References:

Discussion Questions: 1a.DISCUSS an experience when media have help you engage with your study. e.g When you listen to music or use TV as ambient background b. HOW did this influence the effectiveness of your study? 2. Do you think the use of media increased your motivation to study or decreased it?

Discussion Questions: 3. Did media have any influence on your perspective about achievement? e.g Are you motivated to strive for better or it set you back? 4. Throughout your adolescence, did you preference of mass media devices change? WHAT is your preference as an adult?

Discussion Questions: 5. We often focus on the reactive responses of adolescents to mass media influences (aggressive anti-social behaviour, violent video games etc.). In groups of 3-4, LIST some proactive responses adolescences may experience from media influences (empathy etc.). -If possible, PROVIDE specific examples. 6. Different cultures may have different views on the effectiveness of media as a tool for study and learning. In your experience, HOW does your culture view/portray the effectiveness (or pro or cons) of following forms of media?: