Blog Post 2-Social Learning

I think the concept of social learning helps me understand the impact of these images of masculinity through the media.
Social learning is when "users model or imitate attitudes and behavior observed in the media" (Monday's lecture). The media is a large part of society and a large influence on the accepted norms of society. The media is supplying audiences with this image of masculinity as physically tough, strong, independent, and violent men. With this image being the "norm" for all men, this results in men believing that is the exact image they should strive for in life. Through social learning and peer acceptance, men will always have an image of this "tough guy" they will strive to be, even if it is against their natural instincts.

In "Tough Guise" he speaks about how men are portrayed as overly masculine and how it is harder for men of color because there are fewer images of diversity among men of color. He speaks about how usually Hispanic males are portrayed as boxers, criminals or tough guys in the barrio. This media promotion of Hispanic men perpetuates the idea that all Hispanic men are either boxers, criminals or tough guys in the barrio. With this constant image being shown in the media, it gives Hispanic males aspirations of only becoming what is expected. With the fulfillment of these images it completes the theory of social learning as having a large impact on society.

Tough Guise Link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3exzMPT4nGI