Docudrama has a significant impact on viewers' social attitudes, especially when it focuses on sensitive issues such as judicial injustices and marginalization. Research results show that such films can reshape attitudes, foster empathy, and increase support for reforms in the justice system. One example that illustrates the power of docudrama in this context is the film Just Mercy, which follows the fight for justice of an African American wrongfully sentenced to death. This film, based on real events, depicts how racial biases in the judicial system affect the lives of convicts while also addressing broader issues of structural injustice.

Psychologists have confirmed through research that viewing such content can enhance empathy towards former inmates and make viewers more inclined to support criminal justice reforms. The study showed that participants who watched Just Mercy expressed a greater willingness to support initiatives like restoring voting rights to former convicts. Participants rated the emotions displayed by former inmates in short clips, and the results indicated an increase in empathy and understanding towards these groups after watching the film.

The power of visual storytelling

Visual storytelling has a unique ability to engage viewers and direct attention to social issues that numbers and statistics can hardly convey. Psychologists emphasize that stories about real people, conveyed through films or television shows, encourage viewers to emotionally connect with the protagonists, thereby influencing changes in attitudes towards marginalized groups. For instance, Just Mercy provides a powerful narrative about a person wrongfully convicted due to prejudice and system flaws. This approach allows viewers a deeper understanding of complex social problems, promoting a positive stance towards justice reform.

Visual techniques such as close-ups of the protagonists' facial emotions amplify viewers' emotional reactions, which can have long-term effects on their attitudes toward racial and social issues. Thus, television and films are reaffirmed as powerful tools for enhancing social awareness. Historically, media have played a crucial role in shedding light on issues like civil rights, justice, and equality, and it is precisely their ability to engage the audience that makes them vital instruments for promoting social change.

Television as a platform for social justice

Television and documentary films not only inform viewers but also create a platform for dialogue about important issues. Thanks to its wide reach, television can mobilize audiences and give a voice to those who would otherwise remain unheard. Shows and films that cover themes of discrimination, injustice, and other social problems help viewers understand the personal experiences of those affected by such issues, leading to increased empathy and support for necessary social changes.

Documentary series and films have historically shed light on issues such as human rights violations and challenged audiences to reassess their views. For example, stories that follow the lives of former prisoners help viewers understand the challenges these individuals face after serving their sentences, particularly regarding reintegration into society. This contributes to alleviating stigma and supporting reintegration, which is crucial for reducing recidivism.

Empathy as the key to change

The key to understanding the role of docudrama and television in promoting empathy lies in research showing that narrative has a stronger impact on attitudes than statistical data. Statistics often fail to elicit empathy in the way that personal stories can. Films and television shows focused on individuals and their stories soften viewers' attitudes and make them more willing to support reforms. Thus, visual storytelling proves to be a powerful means of mobilizing audiences and promoting social change.

Furthermore, television and film provide a platform for voicing social justice issues through shows, debates, and talk show programs that allow marginalized groups to share their experiences with a broader audience. This not only raises awareness of social injustices but also invites viewers to take action and engage in initiatives for change. With technological advancements, the role of media becomes increasingly important, and its impact on society continues to grow.

Source: Stanford University