5 credits

In an age of technological innovation and virtual spread of knowledge, there are many different types of media, which often affect individuals, groups, and cultures. Students in this course explore the psychological impact of the media as it relates to violence, prosocial behaviors, sex and pornography, advertising, news and politics, special populations, and culture and the global community. They also examine legal and ethical issues related to psychology and the media as well as the impact of the media on social change. Students engage in assignments designed to provide practical application of content on media psychology, the effects of media violence and pornography, the impact of advertising, news manipulation, global disasters, and other applicable topics.