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Recently the idea that mass media portrayals of violence lead to violent behavior has been widely accepted. Research taken to support this, however, has had various problems. The definition of violence is problematic: violent acts of governments, & harmful consequences of structurally imposed poverty, are included in some definitions & not in others. The historical roots & present contexts of violence also vary among societies. Research results are often used selectively to support this position, when in fact the evidence does not clearly support it. A more complex & indirect approach to media influence is needed than is normally postulated. Media portrayal of violence may in fact exist because it helps to maintain the status quo. Violence is portrayed differently in the United States & the USSR, in ways which reinforce each country's ideological position. New research will be needed before any position can be shown to be valid. W. H. Stoddard.