The document discusses several theories of media effects and audience behavior: 1) The hypodermic needle theory views audiences as passive recipients who are directly influenced by media messages. 2) Uses and gratifications theory sees audiences as active in choosing media to fulfill needs and goals. It focuses on understanding audience motives and consequences of media use. 3) Preferred readings theory by Stuart Hall recognizes that media texts aim to influence audiences in certain ways but audiences can also interpret messages oppositionally or through negotiation based on their own views.