Reasons for use: Explained

Explain action: The reason for using sound elements can vary widely. In terms of explaining an action it is not always clear or present in the scene what is going on. For example someone being stabbed is not always obvious without sounds of pain, thereby sound is used to explain the action. If you only see the stabbing motion it is not clear if they have missed or not without sound.

Reinforce emotions: In terms of reinforcing emotions, unless we can clearly see how the person is feeling by their expression; we can struggle to understand the emotions being conveyed. Therefore sounds also reinforce emotions by making it clear how the person is feeling, for example the noises someone makes when they cry and are distraught.

Attract attention: In terms of attracting attention, there are particular sounds like stings and bangs that are most purposely put in to attract the viewers attention. They are clearly emphasised to make a point rather than be like a wild track which is just for the sake of making the action or object clear.

To set a period: In terms of setting a period, certain sounds tell you the time of the product without having to be told within with words or titles. For example a drama set in period times like Jane Austen times, there is going to be very posh classy music. Similar to identifying genres in that you can tell if something is horror, by the sound elements used. Like loud drums suggest heavy objects or people.

To give coherence between shots: This can be used to explain elements at different points in a product, for example if there is a sound that us key to the plot like a certain jingle. If it is used in one scene then another later on it gives coherence between shots. This keeps everything flowing and coherent by making everything straight necked and smooth.

To identify a programme: I briefly mentioned when talking about the elements that theme tunes help to make a programme recognisable. If they are relatable it makes the show more distinctive, identifying the programme makes it easier to follow the concept and programme image.

Effect on specific audiences: Sounds like a little girl crying in desperation can have different effects on specific audiences. As audience's can have emotional attachments and memories linked to certain sounds. Like with the crying a mum could be remembering their daughter being really upset because they were in pain, which upsets them.