The Media Effects Template (MET) for individuals is displayed in Figure 3.1. Notice that the
template contains 24 boxes—each representing a different kind of media effect on individuals.
These 24 boxes are the result of crossing the six types of media effects with the four types
of media influences. These 24 boxes indicate the fundamental building blocks of mediainfluenced
effects. By building blocks, I mean the essential elements from which all media
effects are composed. The template provides a useful device to help us think about the essential
building blocks of effects on individuals and provides us with a common language from which
to define those effects in a consistent manner and help clear up some of the definitional clutter.
The layout of the MET makes it look like the four functions are different from one
another and the six types are different from one another. While there are important differences,
there are also overlaps. For example, with functions, over the long term the altering
function appears very much like a reinforcement function. Also, the six types are interrelated
both in the sense that some scholars share definitions across types as well as that
certain types are used as explanations or components for other types. To illustrate, some
types of effects are strongly influenced by and are even dependent on another type: