Desensitisation, Disinhibition & Cognitive Priming (AQA A-Level Psychology): Flashcards

Becoming accustomed to media violence; reduced emotional responses to violence

Habituation - same material no longer provokes intense response

Violent game players showed delayed responses when someone injured

Reduction of normal social restraints from aggressive media content

Cognitive merging with virtual characters/avatars

Violent TV increased aggression only in already aggressive boys

Media activates related thoughts, emotions & behavioural tendencies

Weapon imagery increased hostile thoughts

Violent media increased activity in emotional processing/memory areas

Prosocial radio messages led to more cooperative bargaining behaviour