MLA Outline Research Paper Example
An MLA outline template is a document that lists the key points and sub-points that are going to be addressed in an MLA research paper based on the Modern Language Association’s guidelines. An outline helps organize and structure the argument and ideas of a research paper. While MLA outline styles vary between different institutions and professors, the general principles remain the same – they help students create a coherent structure to writing their MLA research papers.
Here is an example MLA outline for a research paper on the topic of violence and aggression in teen television shows:
I. Introduction
A. Thesis: Despite claims that television shows promote aggression and violence, studies have shown a more complex relationship between teen viewership and real-world behavior due to psychological and social factors.
B. Background on the topic
1. Relationship between media consumption and real-world behavior is complex and debated
2. Psychologists argue multiple internal and external factors influence individual behavior
3. Studies have shown both positive and neutral correlations between viewing violence and real aggression
C. Overview of arguments
1. Potentially harmful effects of violent/aggressive content on teen viewership
2. Factors that can mitigate harmful effects
3. Positive portrayals of problem-solving can influence teens positively
II. Potential harmful effects of violent/aggressive content
A. Early psychological studies linked viewing violence to increased aggression
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1. Bandura’s bobo doll experiment
2. Short-term increases in aggressive behavior and thoughts from viewing violence
B. Desensitization theory argues frequent viewing can reduce empathy for victims
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1. Reductions in physiological arousal when viewing violence
2. Increased likelihood to interpret violence as acceptable means to solve problems
C. Priming theory suggests aggression cues can trigger similar behaviors
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1. Exposure to aggressive cues can activate related thoughts, emotions, judgments
2. Short-term effects on judgment, decision-making, and social interactions
III. Factors that can mitigate harmful effects
A. Influence of families, friends, and communities
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1. Positive relationships help youth understand media is fictional
2. Discussions with parents/peers reinforce positive values
B. Psychological factors of individual viewers
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1. Age, gender, personality, mental health influence impact of content
2. Ability to distinguish fantasy from reality grows with cognitive development
C. Positive portrayals of problem-solving and consequences
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1. When violence shown as unacceptable or resolved non-aggressively
2. Constructive resolutions of conflict teach prosocial skills
IV. Potential positive influence of media
A. Catharsis theory suggests viewing violence can reduce aggression
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1. Viewing aggression allows for a ‘safe’ way to experience and discharge feelings
2. Long-term surveys have found no association or reduced real-world violence
B. Identification with exciting characters can increase self-esteem
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1. Enjoyment of adventure/drama even when content violent
2. Heightened sense of self through association with brave heroes solving problems
C. Portrayals of prosocial behaviors and values
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1. When characters rewarded for sharing, helping others, resolving conflict constructively
2. Modeling positive ways of interacting benefits youth social-emotional development
V. Conclusion
A. Restate thesis on complex relationship between media consumption and real behaviors
B. While potential risks exist, research shows multiple protective factors at individual and social levels
C. Positive content can balance negative while having open discussions builds healthy skepticism
D. Further research on psychological and social influences needed to better understand impact
This sample MLA outline provides a template for organizing an analytical research paper on the effects of teen exposure to violence and aggression in television shows. The introduction presents the debate and thesis statement. The body sections are structured around key arguments with relevant examples and studies cited to support each point. Finally, the conclusion restates the thesis and key takeaways. By organizing the research and arguments in a logical, hierarchical structure, this MLA outline example helps writers develop a strong argument and analysis in their completed MLA research paper. Research papers provide an important opportunity for students to hone their analytical writing skills, and outlines are essential tools for staying organized during the writing process.