Assumptions of the theory[edit]
Unlike other theories concerning media consumption, UGT gives the consumer power to discern what media they consume, with the assumption that the consumer has a clear intent and use. This contradicts previous theories such as mass society theory, that states that people are helpless victims of mass media produced by large companies; and individual differences perspective, which states that intelligence and self-esteem largely drive an individual's media choice.
Given these differing theories, UGT is unique in its assumptions:[3]
The audience is active and its media use is goal oriented
The initiative in linking need gratification to a specific medium choice rests with the audience member
The media compete with other resources for need satisfaction
People have enough self-awareness of their media use, interests, and motives to be able to provide researchers with an accurate picture of that use.
Value judgements of media content can only be assessed by the audience.