1) If we apply a basic effect model to the representations of youth, particularly the negative ones there could be detrimental implications. (Also some interpretations of the work of theorist Althusser believe that the power of the mass media resides in their ability to place a subject in a way that their representations are taken to be reality.)
If representations of youth seen in Eden Lake and Harry Brown are not decoded as being a selective representations then it could result in creating or perpetuating stereotypes (commonly held public belief about specific social groups, or types of individuals).
This could then lead to creating distance between social groups - which could in turn lead to ignorance and more fear. So adults (particularly vulnerable ones) will become afraid of today’s youth, will be reluctant to engage them and demonise them instead. It can also create tension within social groups with young people becoming afraid of other young people.
Have a look at the articles on demonisation here (and a good article on Surive the Jive blog here) to make notes on the consequences of demonisation. The bits in bold might help. Also here is an interesting article why some people think generating fear is useful in political sense. Here's a really interesting documentary on demonisation - the first ten minutes is worth watching to see how the public's perception of youth crime is so warped. (If the hyperlink doesn't work look for a Channel 4 documentary called Teen Trouble.)
2) If we take David Gauntlett’s view that we use the media as ‘navigation points’ for developing identity, what are the consequences if the representations of youth are negative or unrealistic?
Stewart Lee believes that watching Skins as a teenager would have left him feeling lonely as it portrays a lifestyle that he couldn’t associate with. Do you associate with the representations of youth in TV and Film?
3) However, if we stick with David Gauntlett’s view and apply it to positive or constructive representations there can be benefits. Telling stories and showing lifestyles that youths can associate with is a positive – possibly so they can share the trials and tribulation of growing up, and allow them to put life in perspective.
How could Inbetweeners be seen as useful representation for UK youth?
4) Constructive or positive representation could do the opposite of demonisation, potentially breaking stereotypes and telling the stories behind the negative headlines.
So how does Misfits try to break the classic teenager stereotypes?
Where is the blame placed for the behaviour of the youths in Eden Lake?
What do we learn about the lives of the gang members in Attack the Block?
5) If the representations offered did not sit well with today’s youth they reject mainstream culture. This use to lead to creating subcultures, scenes etc. but now youths can partially control their own identity and representation in media with the use of the net – youtube rants, memes, Facebook pages.
6) A possible negative implication of forming an identity using MySpace or Facebook is that it is a templated format so you are limited in how you express yourself. Also there are many other consequences of Facebook defining your identity.