Get your personalised IELTS Essay Feedback from a former examiner
Download IELTS eBooks, get everything you need to achieve a high band score
Sample Essay 1
The assertion that televised violence negatively impacts social development is a point of significant contention. I firmly believe this influence is detrimental, necessitating a reduction in such content. The ensuing discussion will evaluate the psychological effects on viewers and the broader societal consequences.
The psychological imprint of televised violence on individuals, particularly young viewers, is profound. Research by the American Psychological Association indicates that regular exposure to media violence heightens aggression by modelling inappropriate behaviours as acceptable in conflict resolution. For instance, children who frequently watch violent shows are more likely to exhibit aggressive tendencies and reduced empathy. These effects are not fleeting but have the potential to embed long-term behavioural patterns, disrupting emotional development and social interactions. Such findings underscore the need for stringent content regulation to safeguard mental health and promote positive social behaviours.
On a societal level, the pervasiveness of violence on television cultivates a culture of fear and aggression. Sociological studies illustrate a correlation between high rates of media violence consumption and societal violence, suggesting that televised brutality not only reflects but potentially exacerbates societal issues. For example, media portrayals of violence can desensitize the population, making incidents of real-world violence seem less alarming and more acceptable. This normalization can hinder community cohesion and mutual respect, pivotal components of societal advancement. Therefore, reducing these broadcasts can contribute to a more harmonious and empathetic society, fostering environments that encourage peaceful coexistence rather than conflict.
In conclusion, the adverse effects of televised violence on individual psychology and societal harmony substantiate the call for its reduction. By limiting exposure to such content, we can enhance both personal and community well-being. It is essential for media producers to prioritize societal health over sensationalism, aligning broadcasting practices with the principles of public good.
Download IELTS eBooks, get everything you need to achieve a high band score
Sample Essay 2
The contentious issue of violence in television programming and its impact on social conduct warrants serious consideration. I argue that minimizing such content is crucial for nurturing more positive social interactions. This essay will delve into the psychological influences of violent media on individual behaviour and its broader effects on societal norms.
Firstly, the psychological effects of viewing violent television are profound and well-documented. Research by the American Psychological Association suggests that frequent exposure to media violence can increase aggression by modelling aggressive ways of handling conflicts and by desensitizing individuals to the consequences of violence (APA, 2015). For example, children who regularly engage with violent genres may come to perceive aggression as a normal response to frustration or threat. This behavioural conditioning, over time, can translate into real-world interactions, where these individuals might exhibit increased hostility and impulsiveness. Thus, by reducing these portrayals, we could potentially decrease the propensity for aggressive behaviour among viewers.
Moreover, the societal implications of televised violence extend beyond individual behaviour. High levels of exposure to violent media can contribute to a broader culture of fear and aggression, affecting community relations and overall public safety. Sociologist Charlotte Watts at the London School of Economics argues that media violence not only desensitizes people to the suffering of others but also perpetuates a cycle where fear of violence becomes a driving force in societal interactions. Communities inundated with violent imagery might experience heightened mistrust and social withdrawal, which are counterproductive to societal harmony and cooperation. Therefore, curbing such content could enhance community trust and facilitate more constructive social dynamics.
In conclusion, the adverse effects of media violence on both individual behaviour and societal dynamics substantiate the argument for its reduction. By limiting exposure to violent content, we are likely to foster a more compassionate and less aggressive society. This reformation in media practice is pivotal in cultivating environments that promote positive social development and interpersonal relations.
Get your personalised IELTS Essay Feedback from a former examiner
Download IELTS eBooks, get everything you need to achieve a high band score