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American Families: The Changing Dynamics

Vanessa Murray

Abstract

The Media is a part of all of our lives, whether we like it or not. The word ‘media’ has expanded within the popular vernacular to include not only television, but movies, films, music, video games, the internet and even advertising.

There has been a great deal of research done in terms of the effect of media as it relates to violence, childhood/adult obesity and human sexuality. Several studies have been conducted to monitor the effects of television in terms of children. The content of certain (violent) video games have been examined to understand what effect, if any, they have on children. Another area of huge research has been the effects of watching too much TV as it relates to obesity, intellectual development and school ability. Research had also been conducted to monitor the effects of TV viewing habits (primarily in children and young adults) as it relates to future sexual behaviors. However, little or no research has been done to examine the effects of TV and movies (Mass Media) as it relates to college majors.

Do certain shows influence or inspire people to pursue certain careers. Does the popularity of shows like CSI, NYPD Blue and Law & Order influence students entering college to declare majors in forensic science, criminal justice and law enforcement? Do shows like ER, Grey’s Anatomy and St. Elsewhere influence students to declare majors in medicine? Sometimes, television shows and movies glamorize certain careers and influence people through the detailed storyline. The emotional aspect of many of these shows emphasizes the drama, excitement and potential of many careers. This may explain why, if at all, TV shows and movies could influence people in their decision making. Sometimes, as in the case of college majors, this may not be a bad thing. In my research, I hope to find a correlation to popular films, movies and TV shows to understand the patterns by which people choose careers.

Biography

I was born in Spokane, Washington and moved to Butte to attend Montana Tech and continue my education. When I decided to continue my education at Montana Tech, I knew that I wanted to get as much as possible out of my education.

As a result, I joined several school clubs and was involved in a number of activities. In my first year at Montana Tech, I was a member of the Montana Tech Library Committee to discuss upcoming renovations. I also wrote for The Technocrat, the student newspaper. I had my own features column in which I discussed student life and relevant student and cultural information. In my second year, I wrote for the newly revised Montana Tech Yearbook and in my third year, I worked for the Montana Tech Foundation as an assistant grant writer and proposal developer. I also became involved in the Undergraduate Research Program as a student researcher.

For my project, I chose to research the effects Mass Media have on all of us, especially in terms of education. I feel that understanding how Mass Media works will allow everyone to benefit from its use, especially since media forms are becoming more prevalent and more important to our daily lives.

In May, I will graduate with my Bachelors Degree in Liberal Studies. Throughout my college career, I have focused on Sociology and will continue that focus as I apply for Graduate school, at Tech, to earn my Masters in Technical Communication. For the last two years, I have worked in Butte's Office for Economic Development, which is where I developed my passion for technical writing, grant proposals and economic development. My hobbies outside of work and school include writing, music and Pilates.

Vanessa Murray

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