In our daily lives, we are able to make decisions based on our beliefs and ideas that we find most appealing. We are selective in all aspects of our lives, but even more so in choosing the forms of media content we want to be exposed to. As American consumers, we are exposed to endless amounts of information every day. However, only the most captivating content will hold our attention, which varies for each individual. For example, if you were to drive past a billboard on the highway, it would only pique the person's interest if it matched their beliefs and preferences. This behavior of the general public is also seen in a political context among the leaders of our country. The elected leaders of the United States are elected to promote their beliefs to the public and it is we, as a democratic nation, who control that. These leaders can influence public attitudes and preferences through the choices they make. This type of choice can be further explained by the theory of selective exposure, which is the behavioral act of preferring to be exposed to arguments and ideas based on one's own positions and ideas. This theory also states that individuals will disagree with beliefs that are different from their own. Understanding this theory could help explain how people are more likely to absorb media with content that suits their tastes. Selective exposure is observed through a political framework when candidates seek support for their beliefs and attempt to avoid being challenged. A political candidate's beliefs can also influence public attitudes and preferences. Some existing trends in the literature on selective exposure allow for a better study of the effect of this theory on mass media. A r...... middle of paper ......progresses there. The methodological issues of this study further guide selective exposure theory through empirical and theoretical methods. In conclusion, Selective Exposure Theory has shown a plethora of results that will continue to develop for years to come. Previous research has shown that this theory appears in some current trends, course topics, and policy issues. The theory suggests that individuals will tend to agree with their own beliefs and ideas while rejecting those that oppose theirs. This theory has been compared to other similar theories, such as the hostile media phenomenon and online citizen journalism. With the correlations established, one could say that selective exposure could span a wide range of political communication topics. Even as research continues, selective exposure theory will remain a decision-based theory, dependent on one's own perspective...