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The ‘media effects’ paradigm of mass communication research has produced a substantial body of knowledge about the psychological impact of audiovisual media. Although music exists in virtually every type of audiovisual media, relatively little media effects research has focused on the psychology of music. Better integration of media effects research and the study of music psychology would mutually benefit both disciplines. This integration can be established by investigating music in relation to media effects antecedents (causes) such as the attributes of media users, media content and form, and interactivity. Integration can also be achieved by considering the role of music in theories and models used in media effects research. Examples of these theories and models include social cognitive theory, uses and gratifications, limited capacity of cognition, affective disposition, and excitation transfer.

This chapter examines media effects, communication, and complexity science insights on games for learning. More specifically, it considers how a communication perspective can contribute to research on games for learning. It first provides an overview of traditions of media effects research before turning to a discussion of communication research on media use and media messages. In particular, it explores the concept of “uses and gratifications,” user control, and the dynamic effects of formal features. It also describes dynamical systems and how science can inform the design of educational games.

News consumption requires motivation. This chapter aims to understand user needs and expectancies as motivational factors behind the consumption of mobile news. The three identified motivations of mobile phone use—sociability, entertainment, and surveillance—reveal the underlying reasoning of Asian college students about the mobile phone as an all-in-one media choice that is essential to socialize, entertain, and stay informed. Moreover, surveillance as a civic motivation is positively related to expectancies of mobile news as being interactive and personally valuable. These motivations sought from mobile phone use and usability attributes of mobile news, both civic and practical, manifest the desire of Asian college students to access news on their phones for intentional and active consumption.

Lovers of fiction share enthusiasm for their favorite stories and characters. Many remember iconic moments, such as Darth Vader revealing that he is Luke Skywalker’s father or Rose and Jack sailing carefree on the bow of the Titanic. These shared experiences create common ground and social connection. This chapter explores the psychology of why the stories that become shared cultural touchstones are so meaningful and how people’s favorite stories can help fulfill their psychosocial needs. It discusses what motivates people to immerse themselves in stories and what the outcomes of engaging with different stories can be. Finally, the chapter investigates the lessons people can learn from their favorite story worlds.