Impact Of The Fast And The Furious (Action Film) On The Social Behavioral Pattern Of Students
The Fast and the Furious film franchise, renowned for its high-octane action sequences and vehicular stunts, has undeniably exerted a profound influence on the social behavioral patterns of students. The movies, characterized by their adrenaline-fueled car races and intricate heist plots, have become a cultural phenomenon, shaping not only cinematic preferences but also fostering a subculture around car enthusiasm and street racing. The impact extends beyond the cinematic realm, infiltrating the real-world interests of students who are drawn to the thrill and camaraderie depicted in the films. This phenomenon has led to an increased interest in car culture, influencing social interactions, fashion choices, and even the pursuit of adrenaline-pumping activities among students. The Fast and the Furious franchise, with its dynamic portrayal of relationships, loyalty, and the allure of speed, has become a catalyst for a subcultural shift in the social behaviors of students, creating a tangible connection between cinematic narratives and real-life experiences.
The aim of this study is to analyze the impact of the „The Fast and the Furious‟ (action film) on the social behavioural pattern of students. To achieve this, the survey research design was used. Subjects were drawn from student‟s composition of five faculties in NnamdiAzikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, using the simple random sampling technique and purposive sampling. The sample size was 380 and 350 copies of questionnaire were retrieved. Four research questions guided the study. Research findings shows that the students in NnamdiAzikiwe University,Awka were exposed to action films and were being affected to a great extent by the films they watched. To this end, the researcher recommended that parents, lecturers and school authorities should help Government to sensitize the students on the danger of so much exposure to the action films. Students should also resolve in their minds to restrain from any film that would be injurious to their social orientation. The research suggested that further research should be carried out on the roles of film industries in eradicating negative behaviours and vices among youths.
CHAPTER ONE
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of Study
1.2 Statement of the Research Problem
1.3 Objectives of Study
1.4 Research Questions
1.5 Scope of the Study
1.6 Significance of the Study
1.7 Operational Definition of Terms
CHAPTER TWO
2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW
2.2 Review of Concepts
2.2.1 Action Films
2.2.2 Film
2.2.3 Students
2.2.4 The History of Early Action Films
2.2.5 Classification of Action Films
2.2.6 The Concept of the ‘Fast and the Furious’ (an action film)
2.3 Review of Related Studies
2.4 Theoretical Framework
2.4.1 Controversies on Video Film Effects
2.4.2 Complaints on Action Film Effects
2.4.3 Sociological Effects
2.5 Summary History of action film in foreign countries
CHAPTER THREE
3.0 RESEARCH METHOD
3.1 Introduction
3.2 Research
3.3 Population of Study
3.4 Sampling Technique
3.5 Description of Research Instrument
3.6 Validity and Reliability of Data
3.7 Method of Data Collection
CHAPTER FOUR
4.0 DATA PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Data Presentation And Analysis
4.3 Discussion of Findings
CHAPTER FIVE
5.0 SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
5.1 Summary of Findings
5.2 Conclusion
5.3 Recommendations Based on the findings and conclusions of this study
5.4 Suggestions for Further Studies
References
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of Study
To fully comprehend the research topic, it is important to know and fully appreciate the power of television and films as media used to disseminate information. Television is virtually seen in almost every household. It was introduced to the masses at the New York World‟s fair in 1939.
Jeffery Schrank (1985:21), says television is the greatest invention of the twentieth century. Some on the contrary, see it as a vast wasteland that steals time and turns viewers into couch potatoes. All the same, television is the most competent, involuntary, electronic message carrier of our time. It brings to millions of heterogeneous viewer‟s door steps, live or recorded events. Most Nigerians today, educated or not, have unknowingly, conferred on television and films, the status of baby sitter in their homes.
Film is a study recorded as a set of moving pictures to be shown on the television or at the cinema. It is also a roll on sheet of thus flexible plastic that is sensitive to light for the use in photography. Film also known as movie or motion pictures is a series of still moving images. It is produced by recording photographic images with cameras or by creating images using animation techniques or visual effects. It is considered to be an important form, a source of popular entertainment, a powerful method for educating or indoctrinating people especially children and youths.
Balogun F:(1987) classified film into European film, American film, Chinese film, Nigerian film, lengthy feature films among others. All these classifications can produce violent films, comic films, entertainment film, romance etc. But of these types of films, this study is on Action Films which can be classified under violent films and its impact on the social behavioural pattern of undergraduate students.
Action film is a film genre where one or more heroes is thrust into a series of challenges that require physical feats extended fights and frantic chases. It tends to feature a resourceful character struggling against incredible odds, which include life threatening situations, a villain, or a pursuit which generally concludes in victory for the hero. Advancements in CGI (Computer Generated Imargery) have made it cheaper and easier to create action sequence and other visual effects that required the efforts of professional stunt crews in the past. However, reactions to action films containing significant amounts of CGI have been mixed as films that use computer animations to create unrealistic highly unbelievable events which are often met with criticism. Action has long been an element of films, the “action film” as a genre of its own began to develop in the 1970s. The genre is closely linked with the thriller and adventure film, and it may sometimes have elements of spy fiction and espionage. Action film have traditionally been a
reliable source of revenue for film studios, relatively few action films garner critical praise. Action film have traditionally been aimed at the male audience from the early teens to the mid-30s, many action film makers from the 1990s and 2000s added female heroine in response to the expanding social conception of gender glorifying the strong female archetype.
According to American academy of pediatrics (AAP) 2005 „„Children are influenced by media, they learn by observing, imitating and making behaviour their own”. It is quite depressing to note that since the inception of action films, there have been increase incidents of violent behaviours in youths.
Action films have both detrimental (negative) and beneficial (positive) effects on youths. Pro-social behaviour and anti-social behaviour are the outcome of youths exposure to action films.
The impact of the fast and the furious on the behavioural pattern or development of youths can be a pro-social behavior learnt from films and are imitations which including sharing extrusion behaviour, co-operation, speech construction etc. Anti-social behaviours are verbal, that is, insults and physical aggression, stealing, bullying, fighting etc.
Liebert et al (1998) agree that significant exposure to media violence increase the risk of aggressive behaviour in certain youths. They reviewed that other effects include desensitization to other‟s pain and suffering and the tendency to become fearful of the world around them, viewing it as a dangerous place. Also in America, which has now spread to otherparts of the world via satellite television, the sexularization of American media has serious dangerous influence on youths.
1.2 Statement of the Research Problem
Film as we know portrays the cultural, social and life orientation of a given society. This indicates that once youths watch films they become exposed to the entire scenario which the film portrays, that is the entire cultural and social setting.
Youths learn negative behaviour patterns and values from the films they watch and that is why it is therefore necessary to carry out a survey on the effect of this action films on the undergraduate students.
Therefore, the question of this study seeks to answer is; what is the actual impact of the fast and the furious on the social behavioural pattern of the undergraduate students in NnamdiAzikiwe University, Awka.
1.3 Objectives of Study
• To find out the viewing habits of Nigerian Youths of action films
• To find out the impact of action films on Nigerian youths.
• To asses to what extent parents monitor the viewing habits of their youths.
• To examine how what the youths watch actually affect their behaviour.
1.4 Research Questions
This research is aimed at finding answers to the following questions;
• What are the viewing habits of Nigerian youths of action films?
• What are the impact of the fast and the furious on Nigerian youths?
• To what extent do parents monitor the viewing habits of their youths?
• How does what the youths watch actually affect their behaviour.
1.5 Scope of the Study
This study is based on the impact of the fast and the furious on the social behavioural pattern of students and it is limited to students in faculty of Engineering, Social sciences, Law, Arts and Management sciences but since the characteristics of students are similar, the findings of the study will therefore be generalized to include all students in NnamdiAzikiwe university, Awka.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study is expected to be of great importance to parents, youths, students, researchers and even the government or policy makers who are interested in ascertaining the actual impact action films have on the students.
It will enable the youths to know the mode media can play in changing their attitude and behaviour. Research institutions and students will benefit immensely from this study because they will gain greater insight into the various factors that are likely to influence youths. The study will also help them to understand the internal and external influence that make individuals to act in certain ways.
Finally, the result of this research will enable the government and other policy makers to put adequate measures in place to check the movement of action films and provide vital information on how to address issue of the impact of action film on Nigeria youths.
1.7 Operational Definition of Terms
1 Impact: The powerful effect action films have on students in NnamdiAzikiwe University.
2 Undergraduates: For this study it is the students who are studying for their first degree
inNnamdiAzikiwe University.
3. Social behaviour: Attitude of students exhibited towards action films.
SHARE PROJECT MATERIALS ON:
Impact Of The Fast And The Furious (Action Film) On The Social Behavioral Pattern Of Students:
“The Fast and the Furious” film franchise, known for its high-octane action sequences, fast cars, and themes of family and loyalty, has had a significant impact on popular culture since its inception in 2001. While it’s challenging to measure the direct impact of a film series on the social behavioral patterns of students, it’s possible to discuss some potential influences and effects it may have had:
- Interest in Cars and Racing: The franchise has glamorized the world of street racing and high-performance cars. It may have contributed to an increased interest in cars and racing among students, potentially leading some to pursue careers or hobbies related to automotive engineering or racing.
- Diverse Cast and Representation: “The Fast and the Furious” franchise has featured a diverse cast, which reflects a range of ethnic backgrounds and cultures. This diversity can influence students by promoting inclusivity and representation in media and society.
- Emphasis on Family and Loyalty: The series often highlights themes of family and loyalty, which can resonate with students. It may encourage them to prioritize these values in their own lives and relationships.
- Influence on Fashion and Style: The films have popularized certain fashion trends and styles, such as streetwear and car-related apparel. Students might be influenced by these trends in their clothing choices.
- Action and Risk-Taking: The franchise is known for its high-stakes action sequences, which can be thrilling to watch. This could potentially influence students to seek out adventure and adrenaline-inducing activities.
- Impact on Language and Slang: The films have introduced various catchphrases and slang terms into popular culture. Students may incorporate these into their own speech and communication.
- Discussion of Ethics and Morality: Some critics argue that the films can raise ethical questions about the characters’ actions, such as illegal street racing and extreme stunts. Teachers and parents may use these discussions as opportunities to engage students in conversations about right and wrong.
- Consumerism and Product Placement: The franchise has featured numerous product placements, particularly for car brands and other merchandise. This may encourage students to engage in consumerism and seek out products associated with the films.
- Influence on Career Choices: Some students might be inspired by the characters in the films who have careers in law enforcement, mechanics, or other related fields. This could potentially influence their career choices.
- Impact on Driving Behavior: There is some concern that the franchise’s portrayal of high-speed chases and dangerous driving could influence students to engage in risky driving behavior. This highlights the importance of discussing responsible driving habits with young viewers.
It’s essential to remember that media, including film, can have both positive and negative influences on individuals and society. The impact of a film like “The Fast and the Furious” on students’ social behavioral patterns will vary widely among individuals and depend on factors such as their age, background, values, and personal experiences. Parents, educators, and guardians play a vital role in helping students critically analyze and interpret the media they consume and its potential impact on their lives.