Captive Audience Theory

Captive Audience Theory suggests that when people are required to attend an event or be in a situation they cannot leave, they are less likely to be receptive to persuasion or new ideas. Because they are "captive," their attention is limited, and they have little choice but to stay, which can make them more resistant or disengaged rather than open to influence. This concept is often used in advertising, entertainment, and education to explain why messages delivered to forced audiences are less effective and should be crafted carefully to engage and respect their limited attention.