SOC 101 Thomas Edison State University Technology and Human Behavior Essay

This module’s content focuses upon the institution of the media, which is crucial to shaping public perceptions of truth. Write a 2- to 3-page paper (500 to 825 words) in APA-format in which you discuss the way in which stories circulated in the media shape public perceptions of the causes and cures for deviant behavior. Cite and use at least one additional peer reviewed outside source for this paper.

Your paper must address the following:

• Referring specifically to an outside source, explain why technology has become such an incredibly influential agent of socialization. Give one solid example in your response that demonstrates how technology shapes our identity and behavior.
• Focusing upon one major social issue related to deviant behavior in the United States over the last 30 years (drug abuse, crime, prostitution, etc.), explain how this issue was treated differently in the media 30 years ago in comparison to how it is discussed today. For example, is this issue considered less deviant than it was in the past? Or, conversely, is the media treating this issue more severely than it used to?
• Describe one media outlet today that typically focuses on issues surrounding deviant behavior in society. (This does not have to be a television network but could be any type of alternative media, including YouTube channels, etc.). In your opinion, does the coverage of deviant topics enhance the popularity of this media outlet? Why or why not?
• Finally, referring to the video (How to spot a liar | Pamela Meyer – YouTube) in this module and after doing your own independent research, provide one example of how a criminal used the media to lie to the public.