Mean World Syndrome Essay, Research Paper

Picture this; you re sitting on the back of the 52, you look down at your watch and see that it s half past nine. You see your bus stop approaching quickly. You pull the cord, and glance around to see if anyone is getting off also. Being satisfied that no one is, you jump off, and crack up your headphones. Then you hear it behind you, a faint noise that sound like footsteps. You quickly take off your headphones, and turn around to see an average size male following several feet behind. You recognize him from the bus; something tells you this situation is dangerous, and steps should be taken to ensure your own safety.

This among many other feelings of being in danger is associated with the mean world syndrome . This syndrome, explained by Dr. George Gerbner, is a result of over exposure to television. It is the sense that one lives in a mean and gloomy world.

People that have high exposure to television are more likely than comparable groups to think that there is a higher crime rate in their community then there really is. The mind set that something bad will most likely happen is also a result of too much television. Not only is this a bad way to live your life, always thinking the negative, it can take its toll on your wallet. Statistics show that people who have a tendency to watch large amounts of television are more likely to buy new locks, watch dogs and guns for protection .

Steps taken to lesson the risk of bad things happening to one s self are seen as harmless, but the side effects of this syndrome can become a greater issue. Television holds a fair amount responsibility for stereotypes and discrimination. Those elements combined with apprehension, mistrust and feelings of alienation can lead to a greater amount of violence, which in return will make violence on television even more common. This becomes a cycle that should not be taken lightly.

Although television has some effect on all people, to what extent is unknown. Not all people who watch above average amounts of television will suffer from the same symptoms and side effects, but a good rule when evaluating whether or not one watches too much television to see how it effects one s daily life. If he or she is not happy with what is found, it is a personal choice to change those habits.