Abstract:
The Objective of this study is to find out the impact of media communication on psychiatric
conditions and mental disorders. Case studies selected from Sri Lanka are the sample. Hypothesis
is that, media can induce psychiatric conditions and mental disorders. The research problem of this
study is to examine if media messages have the potential to create psychiatric disorders. Media
effects can be influenced in two ways, first is media effects can be stimulated indirectly for the
existing genetic mental disorders immediately while, the second is media effects can be directly
influenced at human beings by creating psycho-social problems related to mental disorders.
In Sri Lanka, there are several reported cases where, exposure to media has caused psychiatric
conditions. But Medical theory argues differently. Mental disorders can be caused by DNA rather
by social impact. But some illnesses have immerged due to high media exposure and powerful
media impact upon vulnerable group.
In this study, I have found that some patients, who had been severely addicted to media icons,
images and personalities, are imitating and identifying with them. Today, such behavior patterns
have become serious enough to warrant hospitalization and/or treatment.
