Ohio Corrections Academy Practice Test

The reason local media is considered an external influence on behavior is that it infiltrates the environment around individuals and shapes their perceptions and actions through the information it disseminates. This can include news reports, advertisements, and portrayals of events or social issues, all of which can alter how people think and behave in society. The influence exerted by media can reinforce stereotypes, alter public opinions, and even shape norms, making it a significant external factor that can lead to changes in behavior.

In contrast, an officer's experiences and psychological state are rooted in internal factors, influenced by personal history, emotions, and mental health. Peer pressure, while it can be categorized as an external influence, is often a more direct, social interaction that compels individuals toward specific behaviors within a group context. In this case, emphasizing local media highlights its broad societal reach as an influential external element.