It has been argued for years that the media can sculpt the way in which we live. Whether it be news, television entertainment or video games, the presence of violence in any of these media outlets must be analyzed to see how it affects viewers. We found an article that discusses how the media may be causing mass shootings. Many people may be asking, how is that possible? In reality, it is not as cut and dry as it sounds. There are many factors that lead an individual to commit a mass shooting, and media is just a part of it.
Media alone does not create shooters, but rather the way we present the aftermath of shootings may do so. The stereotypical shooter, an isolated individual, may wish to gain social capital by committing this type of crime. The media will play constant coverage of the shooting and the perpetrator. Therefore, the person who wishes to be seen in public will go to great lengths to receive recognition.
Although media effects may be part of the problem for mass shootings, it is also nearly impossible for news stations to not report on crimes committed within our own country. There may have to be some form of balance between the act committed and the coverage it receives.
The Importance of Gun Control 