IELTS Writing Task 2 sample answer (band score 8-9)
IELTS Essay # 1504 - Violence in films and TV is causing serious social problems
- Details
- Last Updated: Monday, 24 February 2025 14:11
- Written by IELTS Mentor
- Hits: 19668
IELTS Writing Task 2/ IELTS Essay:
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Many people believe that the high level of violence in films and TV programmes today is causing serious social problems.
What are the problems caused by excessive violence in films and TV?
How could these problems be reduced?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer 1:
The prevalence of intense violence in contemporary films and television programmes has sparked concerns about its potential contribution to serious social problems. This essay examines the issues arising from excessive violence in the media and proposes strategies to mitigate these concerns.
Firstly, the depiction of gratuitous violence in films and TV programmes has been linked to a surge in aggressive behaviour among viewers, particularly in young audiences. Exposure to violent content has been associated with desensitization to real-world violence, leading to increased aggression and reduced empathy. This phenomenon is particularly concerning in youth, as it can contribute to the development of antisocial behaviour and a tolerance for violence as a means of conflict resolution.
Moreover, excessive violence in the media can have adverse effects on mental health, contributing to heightened anxiety, desensitization, and nightmares, especially in vulnerable populations such as children. The normalization of violence as a form of entertainment may desensitize individuals to its real-world consequences, fostering a culture where aggression is normalized and accepted.
To address these problems, several measures can be implemented. Firstly, content rating systems should be rigorously enforced to ensure that violent content is not easily accessible to underage audiences. Additionally, media producers should exercise self-regulation by avoiding gratuitous violence and focusing on responsible storytelling that considers the potential impact on viewers. Public awareness campaigns can educate parents and caregivers about the potential risks of exposing children to violent media content and provide guidance on appropriate viewing choices.
In conclusion, the proliferation of violence in films and TV programmes poses significant social challenges, from increased aggression to potential mental health issues. Enforcing content regulations, promoting responsible media production, and raising awareness among parents are essential steps in reducing the adverse effects of excessive violence in the media.
Sample Answer 2:
It is believed by many that the prevalence of violence in movies and television shows nowadays is leading to severe societal issues. The main problems it causes are desensitization to violence and increased aggressive behaviour.
Excessive exposure to violent films and television shows can desensitize children to violence. Put simply, violent media content can make a child less sensitive to the sufferings and pain of others. This desensitization, in consequence, leads to a growing acceptance of violence as a normal course of solving conflicts. A case in point is a recent study published in the journal Media Psychology. It revealed that people who frequently watch violent media content become highly prone to being indifferent to real-life violence. This decreased emotional responsiveness can lead to a greater tolerance for violence and a lack of empathy in society.
To make matters worse, exposure to violence in films and television can also result in increased aggressive behaviour, particularly among younger audiences. When children and adolescents see characters resolving conflicts through violence, for instance, they may begin to mimic these behaviours in their own lives, believing that aggression is an acceptable or effective way to deal with personal challenges. This imitation can lead to a rise in bullying, physical altercations, and even more serious criminal behaviour, further exacerbating social instability.
To address these problems, stricter regulations should be implemented regarding the depiction of violence in media. Governments and regulatory bodies can enforce content ratings and ensure that age-appropriate restrictions are in place to limit the exposure of younger viewers to violent material. Additionally, parents and guardians must take an active role in monitoring the media consumption of children, guiding them towards content that promotes positive values.
In conclusion, the excessive portrayal of violence in films and TV poses serious social challenges, such as desensitization and heightened aggression. By implementing stricter regulations and promoting responsible viewing habits, society can mitigate these harmful effects.
Idea Generation for this IELTS Essay:
Essay Question:
Many people believe that the high level of violence in films and TV programmes today is causing serious social problems.
What are the problems caused by excessive violence in films and TV?
How could these problems be reduced?
Essay Type: Problem & Solution Essay.
The main question of this IELTS Essay:
A) What are the problems caused by excessive violence in films and TV? [Problem]
B) How could these problems be reduced? [Solution]
Problems Caused by Excessive Violence in Films and TV:
Encourages aggressive behaviour:
Exposure to violent content can desensitise individuals, making them more likely to exhibit aggressive tendencies in real life. For example, studies have shown that children who frequently watch violent cartoons or action films tend to imitate aggressive behaviours towards their peers.
Promotes criminal activities:
Violent films often glamorise criminal actions, making illegal activities seem appealing, particularly to young viewers. For instance, the rise of gang-related behaviour in some urban areas has been linked to media portrayals of gang culture in films and TV series.
Increases fear and anxiety in society:
Frequent exposure to violent content can create a perception that the world is more dangerous than it actually is, leading to heightened fear and anxiety. For example, individuals who regularly watch crime dramas may develop an exaggerated fear of being victimised, affecting their daily routines and interactions.
Desensitisation to real-world violence:
Constant exposure to violence in entertainment can reduce emotional responses to real-life suffering. For example, people who repeatedly watch violent action movies may become indifferent to reports of war or crime, decreasing their empathy for victims.
Negative impact on mental health:
Violent media can contribute to psychological stress, depression, and sleep disturbances, especially among children and adolescents. For instance, horror films featuring extreme violence have been linked to increased nightmares and anxiety disorders among young viewers.
Solutions to Reduce the Problems Caused by Violent Films and TV:
Stricter age restrictions and parental guidance:
Governments and media regulators should enforce stricter rating systems to prevent children from accessing violent content. For example, the PEGI and MPAA rating systems help parents decide which films and TV shows are appropriate for different age groups.
Educational campaigns about media influence:
Schools and social organisations should educate people on the effects of violent media and promote critical viewing habits. For example, media literacy programs in schools can teach students to distinguish between fictional violence and real-life consequences.
Encouraging the production of non-violent entertainment:
Filmmakers and television producers should be incentivised to create content that promotes positive values and problem-solving skills. For instance, many streaming platforms now feature dedicated sections for educational and family-friendly content.
Parental control and supervision:
Parents should monitor and limit their children's screen time to reduce exposure to violent media. For example, using parental control features available on platforms like Netflix and YouTube can help filter out inappropriate content.
Regulation of violent content in mainstream media:
Governments should impose guidelines on the amount and nature of violence depicted in films and TV programmes. For instance, in some countries, broadcasters are required to edit out extreme violence before airing films on public television.
Report