Uses and Gratifications Theory

Uses and Gratifications Theory is an approach to understanding why people actively seek out specific media outlets and content for gratification purposes. The theory discusses how users proactively search for media that will not only meet a given need but enhance knowledge, social interactions and diversion.

It assumes that members of the audience are not passive but take an active role in interpreting and integrating media into their own lives. The theory also holds that audiences are responsible for choosing media to meet their needs. The approach suggests that people use the media to fulfill specific gratifications. This theory would then imply that the media compete against other information sources for viewers' gratification. [1]

This approach focuses on why people use particular media rather than on content. In contrast to the concern of the 'media effects' tradition with 'what media do to people', U & G can be seen as part of a broader trend amongst media researchers which is more concerned with 'what people do with media', allowing for a variety of responses and interpretations. [2]

Chosen film: Harry Brown

1) What originally attracted you to watch this film?

2) Is there anyway that you think you can relate to this film? E.G. Characters, feelings or meanings 

3) In what way did this film give you 'entertainment'

4) If you could describe this film in three words, what would they be?

5) Is there anything that you took away from watching this film, for example a view of someone or something that you didn't have before?

6) What was the sole reason that you wanted to watch this film? E.G. For an escape, or because you can relate to the film?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uses_and_gratifications_theory [1]

http://www.aber.ac.uk/media/Documents/short/usegrat.html [2]