Uses and Gratifications Theory (Blumler & Katz)

Researchers Blumler and Katz created an audience theory in 1974 by stating that media audiences are active and make conscious choices about the way they consume media. They suggested there are four main uses or gratifications (pleasures) that audiences get from the media.

Diversion: escape from everyday problems and routine - entertainment 

Britain's got talent is a show based on entertainment, this engages with the audience as it is escapism for some people as the show is very amusing.

• Personal Relationships: using the media for emotional and other interaction (e.g. developing affection for characters in TV)

Keeping Up With The Kardashians is a reality TV show that influences the younger generation to become inspired by the Kardashian family which may aspire the young generation to want to be like the Kardashians - e.g. through modelling or business ventures such as clothing lines.

• Personal Identity: finding ourselves reflected in texts or learning behaviour and values from the media. Reality TV or documentary (Educating Yorkshire) are good examples.

Dragons den is a series in which entrepreneurs get three minutes to pitch their business ideas to five multi-millionaires willing to invest their own cash. This show would attract niche audiences and could help people realise whether or not they have a deep interest in business.  

• Surveillance: Information useful for living (e.g. Weather, traffic news, holiday bargains etc.)

The Daily Mail is a popular tabloid newspaper which is up-to-date with the latest news around the world and in showbiz, sports and science.