Which of the following is considered an external influence on behavior?

The selection of media as an external influence on behavior is supported by the understanding of how various forms of communication can shape perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors of individuals and society at large. Media encompasses a wide range of platforms—such as television, news articles, social media, and advertising—that can influence public opinion and individual actions through the messages they portray.

For example, exposure to certain narratives, stereotypes, or representations within the media can lead individuals to alter their behavior or beliefs in accordance with what they see as socially acceptable or desirable. This influence can be both subtle and profound, affecting choices ranging from how one interacts with others to community norms regarding law enforcement practices.

In contrast, the other options—such as personal ethical and moral beliefs, anger, and police subculture—are primarily internal or situational influences that arise from an individual’s personal experiences, emotions, and immediate environments. These factors are intrinsic to the individual and shape their behavior from within, unlike media, which operates externally to influence through broader societal channels. This distinction highlights why media is categorized as an external influence on behavior.