The Uses and Gratifications Model

This model suggests that violent images in text actually is helpful rather than harmful. Specifically audiences act out their violent impulses through consumption of media violence and are therefore less likely to be violent in reality. However it is still unclear that there is any links between violent acts and consumptions of media. This model is opposite to the Effects Model because we USE the text rather than the text using us (active not passive).

We use the media texts to gratify needs for:

• Diversion
• Escapism
• Information
• Pleasure
• To compare
• Learn
• Relaxation
• Emotional satisfaction
• Aggression

This theory is controversial because it states violent images help people.