Q: In what ways does the presence of the mass media influence our perception of social problems in society today? How is this different than it was in the past? Illustrate with an example of a social problem that has been shaped by media.

A (remar): Today's society which is rather dependent on technology, the presence of mass media greatly influences our perception of social problems. More than ever people are in constant connection with the internet, and major media sources are constantly communicating messages about today's social issues to the public. Mass media has a way of shaping people's understanding about our societies, our nation, and out world. To many, mass media is the only source that people rely on to gain a better understanding of what is going on in the world today. Mass media today can range from major newspaper corporations to Walt Disney and even social media. Can mass media really be trusted? According to Leon-Guerrero, 'In 1985, 55% of those surveyed felt that the news media usually get their facts straight, while 34% believed that news organizations usually provide inaccurate reports' (Leon-Guerrero, 2015, p. 316). However, in 2011 more people feel as if the news media produce inaccurate reports and want no political viewpoints (Leon-Guerrero, 2015, p. 316). In the past mass media was not readily accessible like it is today. Today mass media can be accessed in a matter of seconds, whilst in the past newspapers were a primary source for accurate information. Since mass media corporations today have greater control, what they report or fabricate has a direct influence of how society perceives today's social problems. An example of a social problem is violence and aggression among children and teens. Many researchers blame the violence reported by mass media a key factor in affecting the behaviours and mental condition of today's children and teens.

Leon-Guerrero, A. (2015). Social proble316ms: Community, policy, and social action (5th ed.) Los Angeles, CA: Sage.