This theory states that repeated exposure to violence or shocking material like horror films can desensitize people over time, making these materials less effective or impactful. It discusses how early horror films focused more on atmosphere and unknown threats, but modern horrors emphasize graphic death scenes. There is debate around whether extensive viewing of violent media can impact sensitivity to real-world violence. The document also notes concerns that heavy exposure to horror at a young age can lead children to see violence as more acceptable or try to emulate violent characters.