Contagion Effect

One of the largest ways that mass media perpetuates mass shootings is through the platform that it gives these mass shooters, particularly through the phenomenon known as the Contagion effect. This effect is a theory “that has been suggested wherein the occurrence of one mass shooting increases the likelihood of another mass shooting occurring in the near future” (Meindl). This theory is more or less an expanded explanation to elaborate on the “Monkey see monkey do” behavior. The Contagion effect is most directly fueled by the media because it broadcasts a specific event to anybody who’s watching. Why does this happen? Studies show that most humans have an innate negative psychological and physiological reaction to observing violence. “It is believed that the unpleasant physiological arousal usually associated with violence inhibits thinking about violence, disregarding violence, or behaving violently; however, as a result of continuous exposure to violent depictions, individuals are expected to no longer have such reactions. Violence becomes perceived as mundane and pervasive, and this may result in a heightened likelihood of violent thoughts and behaviours” (Muschert). So although the majority of viewers may be everyday spectators who wish to simply view national news, by publicly discussing these mass shootings, news outlets run the risk of future mass shooters viewing the coverage and contributing to the Contagion effect.