Framing

Framing is the way information is presented. It influences how audiences understand and react to a story.

Here's how framing works in the news media:

• Word Choice: The specific words used to describe an event can drastically influence our perception. For example, is it a protest or a riot? Peaceful demonstration or violent mob? The chosen words can evoke different emotions and paint a vastly different picture of the event.
• Focus and Prominence: The amount of space or time dedicated to a story can indicate its significance. A headline screaming about a crime wave might create a sense of insecurity, even if crime rates haven't actually changed. Conversely, a brief mention of a significant breakthrough in healthcare research might leave us feeling underwhelmed about its potential impact.
• Visuals: Images and videos can evoke powerful emotions and influence how we remember a story. A heart-wrenching photo of a child affected by a natural disaster might generate sympathy and a call to action, while a grainy security footage of a crime might stoke fear and anxiety.