Deconstructing Media Messages
A guide to deconstructing media messages and becoming an informed mass media user
In the internet age, we see and hear a lot of media messages all the time. It’s important to know how to understand these messages and figure out what they really mean. Whether it’s ads, news, social media, or entertainment, knowing how these messages are made and how they try to make us think is very helpful.
What does deconstructing media messages mean?
In simple terms, it means carefully studying and taking apart the different parts of a media messages to understand what it really means and why it was made.
It involves looking at things like the words, pictures, how it sounds, and the situation it’s in to find any hidden motives, biases, or tricks the creators might have used.
By doing this, we can go beyond just the surface and think more deeply about what the message is trying to say. It helps us understand how media can affect the way we think and act, and gives us the power to think for ourselves and make smart choices about the information we see and hear.
National Association for Media Literacy Education has created key questions to ask when deconstructing media messages:
- Who created this?
- When was it created?
- Who funded or sponsored this?
- What does this media message tell me about the topic?
- What are the sources of information used in this message?
- What important information is missing or not included?
- What techniques are employed in this message, and why?
- How do these techniques communicate the intended message?
By asking these questions, we can critically analyze media messages and gain a more comprehensive understanding of their meaning and intent.
How to Deconstructing Media Messages
Deconstructing media messages is an ongoing process that requires critical thinking and awareness. Practice these steps regularly to develop media literacy skills and become a more discerning consumer of information.
Message: Start by identifying the main message conveyed by the media piece. For example, in a deodorant advertisement, the message might be that using the particular brand will make you popular and get attention of others.
Language and Tone: Pay attention to the language used in the media message. Consider the choice of words and the overall tone. For instance, if it’s a news article, notice if the language is neutral or biased towards a specific viewpoint.
Visuals: Look closely at the visuals accompanying the message. In the case of a billboard, observe the colors, images, and symbols used. Analyze how these visuals contribute to the overall message and impact your perception. Red is considered to attract most eyeballs.
Source: Investigate the source of the media message. Is it a reputable news outlet, an official brand account, or an individual on social media? Assess the credibility and potential biases of the source.
Persuasive Techniques: Look for persuasive techniques employed in the media message. For example, an advertisement might use celebrity endorsements, emotional storytelling, or appealing visuals to influence your buying decisions.
Cultural Context: Consider the cultural context of the media message. In India, cultural symbols, traditions, and values play a significant role. Analyze how the message aligns with or challenges these cultural aspects.
Biases and Stereotypes: Be aware of any biases or stereotypes present in the media message. Look for representations of gender, religion, or social groups, and assess whether they are fair, accurate, or perpetuating stereotypes.
Intentions: Reflect on the intentions behind the media message. Is it purely informative, seeking to sell a product, or promoting a specific agenda? Understanding the motives behind the message helps to decipher its underlying purpose.
Context: Consider any missing information or context that could provide a more complete understanding of the topic. Evaluate how these omissions might impact the message’s accuracy or fairness.
Verification: Verify any facts, statistics, or claims made in the media message. Cross-reference the information with reliable sources to ensure its accuracy. Be cautious of misinformation or false claims that may be present.
Effects: Finally, evaluate how the media message might influence individuals or society. Consider its potential impact on beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors. Reflect on whether it aligns with your values and what actions it might encourage.
Own Perspective: Based on your analysis, form your own perspective on the media message. Consider the strengths and weaknesses of the message, its potential impact, and whether it aligns with your values or beliefs. Be critical, independent, and open-minded in your assessment.
