The Role of Media Exposure and Perceived Realism in Adolescents’ Endorsement of Dysfunctional Relationship Beliefs

• In Event: Finding Myself, for Better or Worse: Adolescents and Media

Abstract

This study explored the role of media in cultivating adolescents’ dysfunctional relationship beliefs. The association between media exposure and dysfunctional relationship beliefs was proposed to be mediated by how realistic adolescents view romantic relationships in the media to be. Cognitive development was also tested as a moderator perceived realism. Results from a survey of 163 Belgian adolescents between 12 and 18 years old indicated that overall television exposure did not contribute to dysfunctional relationship beliefs either directly (aside for belief in love at first sight) or indirectly. However, perceived realism was found to fully mediate endorsement of idealization and one and only beliefs, and partially mediate overall dysfunctional relationship beliefs and endorsement of love finds a way. Although no indirect effects were found for love at first sight, both overall media exposure and romantically-oriented media exposure were significant predictors. Findings were evaluated in light of cultivation theory.

Author

• Jenna McNallie, Purdue U