Audience Theory

Media texts are aimed at a target audience which can depend on:

• age
• gender
• race/ ethnicity/ cultural background
• interests/ hobbies
• experiences
• class
• regional identity
• disability

1. the effect model or hypodermic syringe
2. the uses and gratification model
3. reception theory

these 3 theories are applied to help us have a better understanding between text and audience.

Primary- actually engaging with the media consciously, for example putting on the radio and listening. Primary is the same as an active audience.

secondary- also doing something else for example having the radio on while going about doing chores.

tertiary- engaged in the media yet on a subconscious level, you would know that its there but you don't take any notice. Also known as a passive audience.