Introduction to Positive Media Psychology

Introduction to Positive Media Psychology summarizes and synthesizes the key concepts, theories, and empirical findings on the positive emotional, cognitive, and behavioral effects of media use. In doing so, the book offers the first systematic overview of the emerging field of positive media psychology.

The authors draw on a growing body of scholarship that explores the positive sides of media use, including fostering one’s own well-being; creating greater connectedness with others; cultivating compassion for those who may be oppressed or stigmatized; and motivating altruism and other prosocial actions. The authors explore these issues across the entire media landscape, examining the ways that varying content (e.g., entertainment, news) delivered through traditional (e.g., film, television) and more recent media technologies (e.g., social media, digital games, virtual reality) can enhance well-being and promote other positive outcomes in viewers and users.

This book serves as a benchmark of theory and research for current and future generations of advanced undergraduate students, graduate students, and scholars in communication, psychology, education, and social work.

Arthur A. Raney is James E. Kirk Professor of Communication in the School of Communication at Florida State University, USA.

Sophie H. Janicke-Bowles is Assistant Professor in the School of Communication at Chapman University, USA.

Mary Beth Oliver is Distinguished Professor and co-director of the Media Effects Research Laboratory at Pennsylvania State University, USA.

Katherine R. Dale is Assistant Professor in the School of Communication at Florida State University, USA.