Concept information
Preferred term
catharsis theory
Definition
- Catharsis theory dates back to ancient Greece, when Aristotle suggested that art can have a cathartic (cleansing) effect by allowing us to experience powerful emotions such as pity and terror without having to go through the real-life events that would give rise to such feelings. Catharsis theory has changed since Aristotle's time; modern proponents suggest that it means that people, including children, can use various media (movies, television, video games) as ways to vent inappropriate urges or emotions in safe, socially acceptable ways. [Source: Encyclopedia of Children, Adolescents, and the Media; Catharsis Theory]
Broader concept
Belongs to group
URI
https://concepts.sagepub.com/social-science/concept/catharsis_theory
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