Introduction (so far)

Clearly outline the topic you are investigating and explain to the reader why this is an important area to study

Within this dissertation the researcher will discuss the implications of using children as a powerful tool within advertising campaigns to achieve a more hard-hitting impact on a mass-scale audience.It will also consider the level of effectiveness in advertisements designed to create a sense of empathy with the aim of changing consumer behaviour. The overarching theme of this study is to explore the extent to which social responsibility impacts on the role and function of illustration, which has lead to a development of interest in how the use and structure of imagery can be used to serve a persuasive purpose. 

Clearly state the overarching research question of the project

The relevance of identifying the level of audience response is important in recognising effective methods that could be applied to future campaigns aimed at tackling a variety of social issues. It also highlights the effectiveness of past campaigns that have implemented behaviour which shows within comparative statistics, often showing a substantial level of improvement.

Outline how you are going to investigate this project (your methodology). This might include highlighting key primary and secondary research methods, including visual, practical, and textual research methods

Reference will be made to texts relating to consumer behaviour, empathy, powerful imagery as well as above-the-line advertising campaigns, often in the form of television commercials, that use children to manipulate and guilt-trip the audience into taking a specific course of action. 

Identifying key persuasive methods used in visual advertisements through the early 20th Century in relation to promoting health care products has stemmed the investigation into the history of social and self-perception, and more specifically looking at drive and motivational factors that individuals aim to achieve a level of self-actualisation. 

The research methodology is centred around the relationship between illustration, advertising and achieving self-actualisation, and how the role of children can act as a vehicle to shift audience perceptions in response to a social issue.