The desensitization theory suggests that people have become less sensitive to shocking or sensitive material that is commonly shown in media like violence, sex, and horror. As exposure to this type of content has increased in recent years through television and other media, people are no longer as impacted by it and view it as normal. However, some argue this desensitization does not necessarily translate to real life situations. Applying this theory, a music magazine using sexual imagery and words would not be viewed as sensitive or unacceptable by readers due to the normalization of such content through frequent media exposure over time. The desensitization theory is similar to the hypodermic needle model in that both suggest the media can influence people's views by repeated exposure until new

1. Desensitisation Theory
Dylan Oakes

2. What is it?
 The theory suggests that we, as a general population, have become less sensitive
to things that are particularly meant to be sensitive.
 Things that can be included in this theory is violence, sexual content, horror or any
other shocking material.
 In recent times, more ‘shocking’ material has been allowed to be shown on TV.
Now, we have become ‘desensitised to this sensitive material.
 However, people may say that it has no direct contact on real life. People believe
that although we may be ‘desensitised’ to things we see in the media, we would
not be ‘desensitised’ to it in a real life situation as we know the content in the
media may not be real.

3. Applying this theory to a music magazine.

4. Applying this theory to a music magazine.
 This is an example of a music magazine that can be classed as ‘sensitive’ in a sexual
way towards certain viewers.
 If we applied this theory, it would indicate that the viewers wouldn’t be particularly
bothered about this sexual material as we see it that often.
 Additionally, the words ‘the joy of sex’ can also be seen as not acceptable,
particularly in past times. However, as the desensitisation theory suggests, we no
longer are sensitive to this kind of material.
 Due to modern day material we see everyday, this type of sexual material is just the
‘normal’ in todays society as we have been gradually made to accept this material
whether it is offensive or not.

5. Relations to other theories
 A theory which is fairly close to this theory is the hypodermic syringe/needle
model.
 This theory suggests that if something is said in the media then the public just
simply accept the idea, due to the heavy influences within the media.
 This relates to the desensitisation theory as if something is said/seen in the media
that is sensitive, people will just accept it and not consider it as sensitive material as
such.