Media and technology tools have evolved to bring a range of functionality to users. Media psychology is on the cutting edge of the trends that are reshaping our world. Two areas where media and technology present unique areas of study for media psychologists are activism and social justice. In this assignment you will select a mediated activism strategy from the list below and write a 3-5-page paper (double-spaced) that explains how that strategy may be used to further social justice objectives. 

Select one activism strategy: 

  • Slacktivism: social media activism (e. g. #metoo).
  • Citizen journalism: (remember that journalism and activism are two different things. However, they may impact each other immensely) (e. g. citizens videoing police).
  • Activism involving:
     * A celebrity (e. g. Lebron James; Colin Kapernick)

     * A Fictional Character (e. g. Hermione from the Harry Potter franchise)

     * A Brand (e. g. Coca Cola; Starbucks; Nike)  

ALL papers must:

  • Present the selected activism strategy and specify how it works. Discuss the psychological concepts and/or theories involved in the application of the activism strategy you chose.
  • Present at least one concrete example of the activism strategy you selected. More than one is fine as long as it is applicable and explained well. Be sure to identify the important figures (i. e. the activist(s), the cause or people group advocated for, and audience of the message). Identify the social justice objective(s) of the strategy. The example must be cited and referenced (e. g. news article or website).
  • Describe the activists method(s) in terms of media utilized (e. g. TV, social media; video). Discuss the different aspects of the example in relation to the activism strategy you selected.
  • Discuss whether the activism strategy was effective in the example? What are the limitations of the activism strategy you selected? Are there any ethical concerns or unintended consequences to consider? Explain. 

In addition to the textbook –  Stever, G., Giles, D., Cohen, J. D., & Myers, M. E. (2022). Understanding media psychology. Routledge.

, research and utilize at least two peer-reviewed journal articles to support your writing. The 3-5 pages must contain content and do not include title or reference pages.     

DO NOT discuss personal observations or opinions.

Must cite –  Stever, G., Giles, D., Cohen, J. D., & Myers, M. E. (2022). Understanding media psychology. Routledge.


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