MEDIA REPRESENTATION OF GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF NEWS COVERAGE IN WESTERN AND AFRICAN MEDIA

MEDIA REPRESENTATION OF GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF NEWS COVERAGE IN WESTERN AND AFRICAN MEDIA

Chapter One: Introduction

Background of the Study

Media representation plays a crucial role in shaping public perceptions of gender-based violence (GBV) and influencing societal responses to the issue. The way GBV is portrayed in the media can impact the level of public awareness, the extent of stigma associated with survivors, and the effectiveness of policy responses (Herman, 2018). Western media often approaches GBV with a focus on individual cases, legal reforms, and advocacy efforts, while African media may highlight different aspects such as cultural practices, community responses, and systemic challenges (Ndlovu, 2020).

 

Understanding the differences in media representation between Western and African contexts can provide insights into how GBV is perceived and addressed in different regions. This study aims to compare news coverage of GBV in Western and African media, examining how various narratives and framing techniques affect public understanding and policy responses (Meyer, 2021).

 

Statement of the Problem

The media plays a significant role in shaping public attitudes towards GBV, yet there is limited comparative research on how GBV is represented in different regional contexts. Western media often emphasizes legal and individual aspects of GBV, while African media may focus on cultural and systemic dimensions (Herman, 2018). This disparity in representation can influence how GBV is understood and addressed in different regions, potentially leading to differing levels of public awareness and policy effectiveness (Ndlovu, 2020). This study seeks to explore these differences and their implications for GBV discourse and intervention strategies.

 

Objectives of the Study

To compare the representation of gender-based violence in Western and African media.

To analyze the impact of media framing on public perceptions and policy responses to GBV.

To identify best practices in media coverage that can improve public understanding and support for GBV interventions.

 

Research Questions

How is gender-based violence represented in Western media compared to African media?

What impact does media framing have on public perceptions and policy responses to GBV in different regions?

What best practices can be identified in media coverage to enhance public understanding and support for GBV interventions?

 

Significance of the Study

This study is significant for media practitioners, policymakers, and advocacy organizations. By comparing media representations of GBV in Western and African contexts, the study provides insights into how different narratives shape public perceptions and influence policy responses. Media practitioners can use these insights to improve their coverage of GBV, while policymakers and advocacy organizations can leverage this understanding to develop more effective communication strategies and interventions.

 

Scope and Limitations of the Study

The study will focus on news coverage of GBV in selected Western and African media outlets. It will analyze news articles, reports, and features to identify patterns and differences in representation. Limitations include the potential for bias in media content and the challenge of obtaining a representative sample of media coverage from diverse regions.

 

Definitions of the Study

Gender-Based Violence (GBV): Any harmful act directed at an individual based on their gender, including physical, sexual, emotional, and psychological abuse.

Media Representation: The way in which media outlets portray and frame issues, events, and individuals, influencing public perception and understanding.

Framing: The process by which media outlets highlight certain aspects of an issue while downplaying others, shaping how the issue is understood and discussed.

 

References

Herman, J. (2018). The Role of Media in Shaping Public Perceptions of Gender-Based Violence. Journal of Media Studies, 41(2), 123-137.

Meyer, A. (2021). Comparing Media Coverage of Gender-Based Violence: Western versus African Perspectives. International Communication Gazette, 83(3), 290-307.

Ndlovu, T. (2020). Cultural Contexts and Media Representation of Gender-Based Violence in Africa. African Journal of Communication, 12(1), 56-74.