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Journal. Media, Volume 6, Issue 3 (September 2025) – 30 articles

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26 pages, 2056 KiB  
Article
“(Don’t) Stop the Rising Oil Price”: Mediatization, Digital Discourse, and Fuel Price Controversies in Indonesian Online Media
by Nezar Patria, Budi Irawanto and Ana Nadhya Abrar
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 124; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030124 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Fuel price increases have long been a contentious issue in Indonesia, sparking intense public and political debates. This study examines how digital media, particularly Kompas.com and Tempo.co, shape public discourse on fuel price hikes through mediatization. Using discourse network analysis, this study compares [...] Read more.
Fuel price increases have long been a contentious issue in Indonesia, sparking intense public and political debates. This study examines how digital media, particularly Kompas.com and Tempo.co, shape public discourse on fuel price hikes through mediatization. Using discourse network analysis, this study compares the political narratives surrounding fuel price increases during the administrations of Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (2013) and Joko Widodo (2022). The findings reveal a shift in dominant discourse—opposition to price hikes was prominent in both periods, with government authority and economic justification emphasized in 2013, whereas concerns over rising living costs and social unrest dominated in 2022. This study highlights how mediatization has transformed policymaking from deliberative discussions into fragmented media battles, where digital platforms amplify competing narratives rather than facilitating consensus. Kompas.com predominantly featured counter-discourses, while Tempo.co exhibited stronger pro-government narratives in 2013. This study suggests that while digital media plays a crucial role in shaping policy perceptions, it does not necessarily translate into policy influence. It contributes to the broader understanding of the media’s role in policy debates. It underscores the need for more strategic government communication to manage public expectations and mitigate political unrest surrounding fuel price adjustments. Full article
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4 pages, 176 KiB  
Editorial
Strategic Communication and Democratic Resilience in the European Union: Journalism, Citizens and the Geopolitics of Narrative
by Concha Pérez-Curiel, Ricardo Domínguez-García and João Pedro Baptista
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 123; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030123 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 153
Abstract
The European Union, like other liberal democracies around the world, is currently undergoing a profound transformation of its communication ecosystem [...] Full article
11 pages, 1142 KiB  
Editorial
Journalism, Media, and Artificial Intelligence: Let Us Define the Journey
by Rashid Mehmood
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 122; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030122 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 203
Abstract
This editorial introduces the Special Issue “Journalism, Media, and Artificial Intelligence: Let Us Define the Journey,” which explores the evolving relationship between journalism and artificial intelligence (AI) [...] Full article
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17 pages, 529 KiB  
Article
Coping with Risk: The Three Spheres of Safety in Latin American Investigative Journalism
by Lucia Mesquita, Mathias Felipe de-Lima-Santos and Isabella Gonçalves
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 121; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030121 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 264
Abstract
Small news media organizations are increasingly reshaping the news media system in Latin America. They are stepping into the role of watchdogs by investigating issues such as corruption scandals that larger outlets sometimes overlook. However, this journalistic work exposes both journalists and their [...] Read more.
Small news media organizations are increasingly reshaping the news media system in Latin America. They are stepping into the role of watchdogs by investigating issues such as corruption scandals that larger outlets sometimes overlook. However, this journalistic work exposes both journalists and their organizations to a range of security threats, including physical violence, legal pressure, and digital attacks. In response, these outlets have developed coping strategies to manage and mitigate such risks. This article presents an exploratory study of the approaches adopted to protect information and data, ensure the safety and well-being of journalists, and maintain organizational continuity. Based on a series of in-depth interviews with leaders of award-winning news organizations for their investigative reporting, the study examines a shift from a competitive newsroom model to a collaborative approach in which information is shared—sometimes across borders—to support investigative reporting and strengthen security practices. We identify strategies implemented by small news organizations to safeguard their journalistic work and propose an integrative model of news safety encompassing the following three areas of security: physical, legal, and digital. This study contributes to the development of the newsafety framework and sheds light on safety practices that support media freedom. Full article
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20 pages, 302 KiB  
Article
Understanding Influencer Followership on Social Media: A Case Study of Students at a South African University
by Nkosinathi Mlambo, Mpendulo Ncayiyane, Tarirai Chani and Murimo Bethel Mutanga
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 120; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030120 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 323
Abstract
The influence of social media personalities has grown significantly, especially among youth audiences who spend substantial time on platforms like TikTok. The emergence and popularity of different types of social media influencers accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic in many countries, including South Africa. [...] Read more.
The influence of social media personalities has grown significantly, especially among youth audiences who spend substantial time on platforms like TikTok. The emergence and popularity of different types of social media influencers accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic in many countries, including South Africa. In turn, this period also saw a surge in youth audiences following these influencers. This rapid growth of influencer followings among young people is largely driven by specific types of content that resonate with them, thus encouraging continued engagement. However, the benefits that these young followers gain from engaging with various influencers and the factors driving their preferences for specific influencers remain underexplored, particularly within the context of South African students within higher education. Therefore, this study explores the types of social media influencers most followed by university students at a South African University and investigates the key factors that drive their preferences. A structured online questionnaire was distributed, gathering both multiple-choice and open-ended responses from students. The data were analyzed using categorical frequency counts and thematic analysis. The data highlight how students actively turn to influencers as emotional anchors, role models, and sources of practical guidance. Their engagement reflects a deep need for connection, inspiration, and identity formation in a challenging academic and social environment. These patterns show that influencer content is not just entertainment but plays a critical developmental role. Understanding these motivations helps educators, policymakers, and brands to align better with youth values. The significance of these results lies in how influencer content is now coming in to fill the emotional, cultural, and educational gaps left by traditional systems among the young South African university students in this modern era. Full article
1 pages, 129 KiB  
Correction
Correction: Perreault et al. (2024). “Part of the Team”: In-House Sports Reporters Navigating the Journalistic Periphery. Journalism and Media, 5(1), 203–218
by Gregory P. Perreault, Daniel Nölleke, Monica Crawford and Ella Hackett
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 119; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030119 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 95
Abstract
In the published paper Perreault et al [...] Full article
21 pages, 4375 KiB  
Article
The Role of Public Relations in the Employability and Entrepreneurship Services of Andalusian Public Universities
by Minea Ruiz-Herrería, Dolores Rando-Cueto, Ainhoa del Pino Rodríguez-Vera and Carlos de las Heras-Pedrosa
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 118; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030118 - 26 Jul 2025
Viewed by 325
Abstract
In higher education, the employability and entrepreneurship services play an essential role in the labor market insertion of graduates. The management of public relations promotes institutional projection, the creation of networks with companies, and the dissemination of initiatives to strengthen professional skills. This [...] Read more.
In higher education, the employability and entrepreneurship services play an essential role in the labor market insertion of graduates. The management of public relations promotes institutional projection, the creation of networks with companies, and the dissemination of initiatives to strengthen professional skills. This research analyzes how the communication strategies of Andalusian public universities improve employability and encourage entrepreneurship. A methodological triangulation is used: literature review, analysis of social networks with Fanpage Karma, and study of corporate websites. The results show a focus on counseling, training, workshops, job fairs, and networking events, strengthening the brand of universities and their commitment to the professional development of students. Full article
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29 pages, 1849 KiB  
Article
Communication Strategies of Startups During the Natural Catastrophe of the 2024 DANA: Impact on Public Opinion and Business Reputation
by Ainhoa del Pino Rodríguez-Vera, Dolores Rando-Cueto, Minea Ruiz-Herrería and Carlos De las Heras-Pedrosa
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 117; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030117 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 434
Abstract
In October 2024, a DANA (Isolated Depression at High Levels) triggered torrential rains across the Valencian Community, causing 227 deaths, severe infrastructure damage, and economic losses estimated at €17.8 billion. In this context of crisis, startups, despite having fewer resources and less experience [...] Read more.
In October 2024, a DANA (Isolated Depression at High Levels) triggered torrential rains across the Valencian Community, causing 227 deaths, severe infrastructure damage, and economic losses estimated at €17.8 billion. In this context of crisis, startups, despite having fewer resources and less experience than large corporations, played a significant role in crisis communication, shaping public perception and operational continuity. This study explores the communication strategies adopted by startups during and after the disaster, focusing on their activity on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook between October 2024 and January 2025. Using a mixed-methods approach, we conducted a quantitative analysis of digital discourse through the Fanpage Karma tool, assessing metrics such as engagement, reach, and posting frequency. Sentiment analysis was performed using GPT-4, an advanced natural language processing model, and in-depth interviews with startup representatives provided qualitative insights into reputational impacts. The findings reveal that startups which aligned their discourse with the social context, prioritizing transparency and emotional proximity, enhanced their visibility and credibility. These results underscore how effective crisis communication not only mitigates reputational risk but also strengthens the local entrepreneurial ecosystem through trust-building and social responsibility. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Communication in Startups: Competitive Strategies for Differentiation)
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20 pages, 718 KiB  
Communication
Examining Crisis Communication in Geopolitical Conflicts: The Micro-Influencer Impact Model
by Ahmed Taher, Hoda El Kolaly and Nourhan Tarek
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 116; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030116 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 356
Abstract
In the digital communication ecosystem, micro-influencers have influenced public response during crises, especially in complex geopolitical contexts. This paper introduces the micro-influencer impact model (MIIM), a framework for analyzing the impact of micro-influencers on crisis communication. The MIIM integrates four components (micro-influencer characteristics, [...] Read more.
In the digital communication ecosystem, micro-influencers have influenced public response during crises, especially in complex geopolitical contexts. This paper introduces the micro-influencer impact model (MIIM), a framework for analyzing the impact of micro-influencers on crisis communication. The MIIM integrates four components (micro-influencer characteristics, message framing and delivery, audience factors, and crisis context) offering a comprehensive approach to understanding micro-influencer dynamics during crises. Cross-conflict analysis spanning Ukraine–Russia, Sudan–Ethiopia, Armenia–Azerbaijan, Myanmar, Syria, and India–Pakistan tensions demonstrates the MIIM’s broad applicability across diverse geopolitical crises, showing how factors like perceived authenticity, niche expertise, narrative personalization, and audience digital literacy consistently shape public opinion and crisis response. The MIIM synthesizes crisis communication theories, social influence models, and digital media research, providing a sophisticated framework for studying the dissemination of information and public engagement during crises. The paper proposes theoretically grounded propositions on the impact of micro-influencers, encompassing perceived authenticity, narrative framing, and influence over time, thereby laying the groundwork for future empirical research. Implications for communication scholars, crisis managers, policymakers, and social media platforms are discussed, emphasizing the MIIM’s relevance to theory and practice in crisis communication. Full article
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17 pages, 901 KiB  
Article
Beyond the Battlefield: A Cross-European Study of Wartime Disinformation
by Rocío Sánchez-del-Vas and Jorge Tuñón-Navarro
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 115; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030115 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 464
Abstract
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has profoundly altered the global geopolitical landscape. Owing to its geographical proximity, the conflict has had a considerable impact on Europe. Marked by the professionalisation and democratisation of technology, it has underscored the growing significance of hybrid warfare, in [...] Read more.
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has profoundly altered the global geopolitical landscape. Owing to its geographical proximity, the conflict has had a considerable impact on Europe. Marked by the professionalisation and democratisation of technology, it has underscored the growing significance of hybrid warfare, in which disinformation and propaganda serve as additional instruments of war. Within this context, the aim of this article is to examine the characteristics of false information related to the war between Russia and Ukraine in four European countries between 2022 and 2023. To this end, a content analysis of 297 hoaxes was conducted across eight fact-checking platforms, complemented by ten in-depth interviews with specialised professionals. The findings indicate that disinformation is characterised by viral audiovisual hoaxes, particularly on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter), with a notable surge in disinformation flows at the onset of the invasion. In the early months, misleading content predominantly consisted of decontextualised images of the conflict, whereas a year later, the focus shifted to narratives concerning international support and alliances. The primary objective of this disinformation is to polarise public opinion against a perceived common enemy. The conclusions provide a broader and more nuanced understanding of wartime disinformation within the European context. Full article
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18 pages, 988 KiB  
Article
The Politics of Framing Water Infrastructure: A Topic Model Analysis of Media Coverage of India’s Ken-Betwa River Link
by Harman Singh, Matthew Hansen and Trevor Birkenholtz
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 114; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030114 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 364
Abstract
The framing of water infrastructure in the news influences how the public perceives future infrastructure development and associated social-environmental risks. This study examines English-language newspaper coverage of the Ken-Betwa river link, the first component of India’s National River Linking Program (INRLP) to receive [...] Read more.
The framing of water infrastructure in the news influences how the public perceives future infrastructure development and associated social-environmental risks. This study examines English-language newspaper coverage of the Ken-Betwa river link, the first component of India’s National River Linking Program (INRLP) to receive approval. Data for this analysis comprised 316 newspaper articles, collected via a keyword search in LexisNexis API, from seven Indian English-language newspapers (Free Press Journal (India), Hindustan Times, Indian Express, The Economic Times, The Hindu, The Times of India (TOI), and Times of India (Electronic Edition)) published between 2004 and 2022. By applying LDA topic modeling, a type of generative probabilistic model, to this dataset, this study examines how evolving media narratives frame water infrastructure in India. Our results identify 23 distinct topics and three dominant frames: (1) a government policy frame, (2) INRLP comparative frame, and (3) environmental conservation frame. We find that these frames evolve, with early coverage emphasizing feasibility and government-led negotiations, and later articles highlighting environmental risks. Our analysis shows how media discourse reflects institutional logic and infrastructure milestones. This study demonstrates the value of computational methods for longitudinal media analysis, has the potential to reveal shifts in public discourse, and highlights power dynamics in environmental reporting. Full article
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13 pages, 278 KiB  
Article
Use of Social Media by Health Science Degree Students in the Field of Organ Donation and Transplantation
by Javier Almela-Baeza, Cristiana Ferrigno and Beatriz Febrero
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 113; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030113 - 19 Jul 2025
Viewed by 297
Abstract
Health professionals and institutions, as users and influencers, use social networks to disseminate information and knowledge about health issues, in the case of organ donation and transplantation (ODT) to spread the social benefits of the process and increase the positive attitude towards ODT. [...] Read more.
Health professionals and institutions, as users and influencers, use social networks to disseminate information and knowledge about health issues, in the case of organ donation and transplantation (ODT) to spread the social benefits of the process and increase the positive attitude towards ODT. The aim of this work was to analyse the perception and use of social networks by university students of health sciences to determine whether, in their opinion, social platforms are suitable for the promotion of ODT after participating in an educational programme specialising in ODT and communication. The students indicated that social networks are a good medium for disseminating messages about ODT, with WhatsApp standing out as the most appropriate after the programme. Eighty-six per cent say that social media can positively influence the attitude towards ODT and 65% have started to follow ODT institutional accounts on social media. Addressing communication in specialisation programmes in the field of health and ODT raises awareness of the responsible use of social media among university health students and strengthens their capacity as prescribers of the social benefits of ODT. Full article
34 pages, 2061 KiB  
Article
Analyzing Communication and Migration Perceptions Using Machine Learning: A Feature-Based Approach
by Andrés Tirado-Espín, Ana Marcillo-Vera, Karen Cáceres-Benítez, Diego Almeida-Galárraga, Nathaly Orozco Garzón, Jefferson Alexander Moreno Guaicha and Henry Carvajal Mora
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 112; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030112 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 462
Abstract
Public attitudes toward immigration in Spain are influenced by media narratives, individual traits, and emotional responses. This study examines how portrayals of Arab and African immigrants may be associated with emotional and attitudinal variation. We address three questions: (1) How are different types [...] Read more.
Public attitudes toward immigration in Spain are influenced by media narratives, individual traits, and emotional responses. This study examines how portrayals of Arab and African immigrants may be associated with emotional and attitudinal variation. We address three questions: (1) How are different types of media coverage and social environments linked to emotional reactions? (2) What emotions are most frequently associated with these portrayals? and (3) How do political orientation and media exposure relate to changes in perception? A pre/post media exposure survey was conducted with 130 Spanish university students. Machine learning models (decision tree, random forest, and support vector machine) were used to classify attitudes and identify predictive features. Emotional variables such as fear and happiness, as well as perceptions of media clarity and bias, emerged as key features in classification models. Political orientation and prior media experience were also linked to variation in responses. These findings suggest that emotional and contextual factors may be relevant in understanding public perceptions of immigration. The use of interpretable models contributes to a nuanced analysis of media influence and highlights the value of transparent computational approaches in migration research. Full article
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19 pages, 1091 KiB  
Article
Exploring Students’ Perceptions of the Campus Climate and Intergroup Relations: Insights from a Campus-Wide Survey at a Minority-Serving University
by Irina Golubeva, David Di Maria, Adam Holden, Katherine Kohler and Mary Ellen Wade
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 111; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030111 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 261
Abstract
Campus climate research has long been a focus of higher education scholarship; however, studies show that inequalities and a pervasive sense of not belonging continue to negatively affect students. This paper presents the results of a campus-wide survey conducted at a Minority-Serving Institution [...] Read more.
Campus climate research has long been a focus of higher education scholarship; however, studies show that inequalities and a pervasive sense of not belonging continue to negatively affect students. This paper presents the results of a campus-wide survey conducted at a Minority-Serving Institution (MSI), with a sample of 820 undergraduate, master’s, Ph.D., and non-degree students. The authors explore students’ experiences on campus in relation to their identities as well as students’ perceptions of campus climate. Specifically, the paper examines students’ intergroup relations and how these influence their sense of belonging. The survey instrument developed in the frame of this project also included questions designed to assess opportunities students have to develop key values, attitudes, skills, knowledge, and critical understanding related to intercultural and democratic competences necessary for life and work in multicultural societies. This study identifies the areas students perceive as important for development, highlighting which values, attitudes, skills, knowledge, and critical understanding they have had the opportunity to cultivate during their time at the university and those they would like to develop further. The authors hope these findings will inform efforts to strengthen institutional support for more inclusive practices on culturally diverse university campuses and provide evidence-based guidance for designing effective pedagogical interventions. Full article
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15 pages, 1599 KiB  
Article
Visual Representations in AI: A Study on the Most Discriminatory Algorithmic Biases in Image Generation
by Yazmina Vargas-Veleda, María del Mar Rodríguez-González and Iñigo Marauri-Castillo
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 110; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030110 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 382
Abstract
This study analyses algorithmic biases in AI-generated images, focusing on aesthetic violence, gender stereotypes, and weight discrimination. By examining images produced by the DALL-E Nature and Flux 1 systems, it becomes evident how these tools reproduce and amplify hegemonic beauty standards, excluding bodily [...] Read more.
This study analyses algorithmic biases in AI-generated images, focusing on aesthetic violence, gender stereotypes, and weight discrimination. By examining images produced by the DALL-E Nature and Flux 1 systems, it becomes evident how these tools reproduce and amplify hegemonic beauty standards, excluding bodily diversity. Likewise, gender representations reinforce traditional roles, sexualising women and limiting the presence of non-normative bodies in positive contexts. The results show that training data and the algorithms used significantly influence these trends, perpetuating exclusionary visual narratives. The research highlights the need to develop more inclusive and ethical AI models, with diverse data that reflect the plurality of bodies and social realities. The study concludes that artificial intelligence (AI), far from being neutral, actively contributes to the reproduction of power structures and inequality, posing an urgent challenge for the development and regulation of these technologies. Full article
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15 pages, 532 KiB  
Article
Generational Differences: The Levels and Determinants of News Media Trust in China
by Ke Du
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 109; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030109 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 404
Abstract
Generational differences in news media trust are mainly studied in Western contexts and remain underexplored in non-Western societies. Drawing on the theory of generations, this study investigates the potential generational gaps in the levels and determinants of news media trust in China. Three [...] Read more.
Generational differences in news media trust are mainly studied in Western contexts and remain underexplored in non-Western societies. Drawing on the theory of generations, this study investigates the potential generational gaps in the levels and determinants of news media trust in China. Three analyses are conducted using data from the World Values Survey (WVS) in mainland China. Findings indicate a significant decline in news media trust levels from the Early PRC Generation (–1961) through the Cultural Revolution Generation (1962–1977), the Reform and Opening-up Generation (1978–1991), to the Globalization Generation (1992–). Notably, generation moderates the relationship between news media trust and its determinants. From older to younger generations, the influence of political trust on news media trust gradually weakens, while the impact of authoritarian personality increases. This study offers explanations for the dynamic changes in news media trust from the perspective of generational shifts. Full article
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14 pages, 1126 KiB  
Article
The Gender Gap in Science Communication on TikTok and YouTube: How Platform Dynamics Shape the Visibility of Female Science Communicators
by Maider Eizmendi-Iraola, Simón Peña-Fernández and Jordi Morales-i-Gras
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 108; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030108 - 16 Jul 2025
Viewed by 659
Abstract
Social media platforms facilitate the dissemination of science and access to it. However, gender inequalities in the participation and visibility of communicators persist. This study examined the differences in reach and audience response between YouTube and TikTok from a gender perspective. To do [...] Read more.
Social media platforms facilitate the dissemination of science and access to it. However, gender inequalities in the participation and visibility of communicators persist. This study examined the differences in reach and audience response between YouTube and TikTok from a gender perspective. To do so, the ten most influential science accounts on YouTube and TikTok were selected, with the sample divided equally between men and women, to conduct a comparative study. A total of 4293 videos on TikTok and 4825 on YouTube were analyzed, along with 277,528 comments, considering metrics of views and interaction. The results show that on YouTube, men received more likes and views, while on TikTok, audience response was more balanced. The participation of women on both platforms also had a differential impact, as the number of women engaging with content on YouTube negatively correlated with interaction levels, whereas on TikTok, their impact was slightly positive. In conclusion, TikTok emerges as a more inclusive space for scientific communication, though structural challenges remain on both platforms, encouraging further research into strategies that promote gender equity in online science communication. Full article
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17 pages, 294 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Media Narratives on the Audience’s Self: Immediate and Delayed Effects
by Nurit Tal-Or and Irene Razpurker-Apfeld
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 107; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030107 - 15 Jul 2025
Viewed by 316
Abstract
Studies commonly measure the effects of media narratives on the self immediately following exposure. We explored whether these effects on viewers’ self-esteem, self-efficacy and motivation are confined to the immediate post-exposure period and examined how they are related to the audience’s identification with [...] Read more.
Studies commonly measure the effects of media narratives on the self immediately following exposure. We explored whether these effects on viewers’ self-esteem, self-efficacy and motivation are confined to the immediate post-exposure period and examined how they are related to the audience’s identification with the protagonist. In Study 1, participants watched movie clips that included inspiring narratives depicting protagonists who succeeded in accomplishing their goals. Implicit self-esteem was significantly higher immediately after watching than after a short break. Unexpectedly, identification was positively correlated only with delayed self-esteem. In Study 2 we changed the control condition and added explicit measures. The reduction in implicit self-esteem between the two measurement times was replicated in the no-treatment control group. Moreover, self-efficacy and motivation were higher than in the control group and were stable over time, and identification was positively related only to delayed implicit self-esteem and motivation. We conclude that the effect of inspiring narratives on the self extends beyond the immediate time of exposure, and identification with the characters contributes to this persistent effect. The findings are explained by theories of contrast and assimilation, identification and inspiring narratives. Full article
18 pages, 2323 KiB  
Article
Portuguese–Brazilian Market: Quantitative Analysis of the Ratio Between Men and Women in the Writing of Telenovelas in Brazil and Portugal, from 1951 to 2025
by Haphisa Souza Mugnaini and Inês Salvador
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 106; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030106 - 15 Jul 2025
Viewed by 636
Abstract
Brazil and Portugal are undeniably united because they share the same language, ocean, and, to a considerable extent, history. There has also been a profound rapprochement between the two countries at the media level, particularly in telenovelas. Brazil developed the “telenovela” genre in [...] Read more.
Brazil and Portugal are undeniably united because they share the same language, ocean, and, to a considerable extent, history. There has also been a profound rapprochement between the two countries at the media level, particularly in telenovelas. Brazil developed the “telenovela” genre in the 1950s and inspired Portuguese serial television fiction the most. First, Portugal saw a commitment to plots of Brazilian origin (1977—“Gabriela, Cravo e Canela”), a reality still observed today, albeit somewhat. Portuguese producers then studied and recruited Brazilian professionals when the first Portuguese narratives were created to absorb their knowledge and expertise. This research aims to measure how many telenovelas have been written by women since their broadcasting in the Portuguese–Brazilian market. This question unfolds into other questions, such as the following: What is the ratio of telenovelas written by men to women from 1951 to March 2025 in Portugal and Brazil? Is there a trend towards equilibrium, an increase or decrease in telenovelas written by men or women in the market being analyzed? To answer these questions, data was collected manually through information repositories such as “Observatório de TV” and “SP Televisão” and by watching generic telenovelas available on YouTube or the broadcasters’ channels. Portuguese and Brazilian television channels with national coverage were considered for this research. The data shows that 926 telenovelas were broadcast in the Portuguese–Brazilian market, of which 27.7 per cent were written by women, 64.1 per cent by men, 7.4 per cent were written in partnership between men and women, and 0.8 per cent have no information available. This study reveals a better balance between the number of male and female authors in Portugal than in Brazil and a downward trend in the number of female telenovela authors in Brazil after the military dictatorship. Full article
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22 pages, 1642 KiB  
Article
Artificial Intelligence and Journalistic Ethics: A Comparative Analysis of AI-Generated Content and Traditional Journalism
by Rimma Zhaxylykbayeva, Aizhan Burkitbayeva, Baurzhan Zhakhyp, Klara Kabylgazina and Gulmira Ashirbekova
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 105; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030105 - 15 Jul 2025
Viewed by 692
Abstract
This article presents a comparative study of content generated by artificial intelligence (AI) and articles authored by professional journalists, focusing on the perspective of a Kazakhstani audience. The analysis was conducted based on several key criteria, including the structure of the article, writing [...] Read more.
This article presents a comparative study of content generated by artificial intelligence (AI) and articles authored by professional journalists, focusing on the perspective of a Kazakhstani audience. The analysis was conducted based on several key criteria, including the structure of the article, writing style, factual accuracy, citation of sources, and completeness of the information. The study spans a variety of topics, such as politics, economics, law, sports, education, and social issues. The results indicate that AI-generated articles tend to exhibit greater structural clarity and neutrality. On the other hand, articles written by journalists score higher in terms of factual accuracy, analytical depth, and the use of verified sources. Furthermore, the research explores the significance of journalistic ethics in ensuring transparency and information completeness in content production. Ultimately, the findings emphasize the importance of upholding rigorous journalistic standards when integrating AI into media practices. Full article
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16 pages, 729 KiB  
Article
Digital Youth Activism on Instagram: Racial Justice, Black Feminism, and Literary Mobilization in the Case of Marley Dias
by Inês Amaral and Disakala Ventura
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 104; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030104 - 15 Jul 2025
Viewed by 708
Abstract
This paper examines how Marley Dias’ activism on Instagram promotes racial justice, Black feminist thought, and youth mobilization through digital storytelling, representation, and audience engagement. Using a mixed-methods analysis of 744 posts published between 2016 and 2025, the study combined critical thematic coding, [...] Read more.
This paper examines how Marley Dias’ activism on Instagram promotes racial justice, Black feminist thought, and youth mobilization through digital storytelling, representation, and audience engagement. Using a mixed-methods analysis of 744 posts published between 2016 and 2025, the study combined critical thematic coding, temporal mapping, and engagement metrics to analyze the discursive and emotional strategies behind Dias’ activism. Five key themes were identified as central to her activist work: diversity in literature, lack girl empowerment, racial justice, Black representation, and educational advocacy. The findings reveal that Dias strategically tailors her messages to suit Instagram’s unique features, using carousels and videos to enhance visibility, foster intimacy, and provide depth in education. Posts that focused on identity, aesthetics, and empowerment garnered the highest levels of engagement, while posts that concentrated on structural issues received lower, yet still significant, interaction. The paper argues that Dias’ Instagram account serves as a dynamic platform for youth-led Black feminist resistance, where cultural production, civic education, and emotional impact converge. This case underscores the political potential of digital literacies and encourages a reconsideration of how youth-driven digital activism is reshaping contemporary public discourse, agency, and knowledge production in the social media age. Full article
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28 pages, 319 KiB  
Article
Mediated Mothering: Exploring Maternal and Adolescent Social Media Use and Social Comparison During and Beyond COVID-19
by Amanda L. Sams, Marquita S. Smith, Bitt Moon and Leslie J. Ray
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 103; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030103 - 15 Jul 2025
Viewed by 876
Abstract
This study aimed to explore how social media usage influenced both parent and adolescent mental health and social identity during and after the COVID-19 pandemic through the theoretical foundational lens of social comparison theory. In-depth interviews with 24 mothers of adolescent children (ages [...] Read more.
This study aimed to explore how social media usage influenced both parent and adolescent mental health and social identity during and after the COVID-19 pandemic through the theoretical foundational lens of social comparison theory. In-depth interviews with 24 mothers of adolescent children (ages 10–19) were conducted to address the research questions. Qualitative thematic analysis of the interview transcripts revealed eight emerging themes: (1) learning and entertainment, (2) maternal fears related to content binging and cyberbullying, (3) finding connection and comfort through social media during the pandemic, (4) ongoing digital care work as lasting maternal labor, (5) iterative dialogue: platform restrictions and content curation boundaries, (6) upward and downward social comparison, (7) fear of missing out (FoMO), and (8) third-person perception (TPP). The findings show that mothers perceive social media usage as either beneficial or harmful among adolescents (their children); upward and downward social comparison via social media exhibits more dynamic mechanisms. Moreover, this study enhances our theoretical understanding by linking social media usage to social identity, social comparison, and mental health during a global health crisis. Full article
22 pages, 1013 KiB  
Article
Leveraging Artificial Intelligence in Social Media Analysis: Enhancing Public Communication Through Data Science
by Sawsan Taha and Rania Abdel-Qader Abdallah
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 102; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030102 - 12 Jul 2025
Viewed by 605
Abstract
This study examines the role of AI tools in improving public communication via social media analysis. It reviews five of the top platforms—Google Cloud Natural Language, IBM Watson NLU, Hootsuite Insights, Talkwalker Analytics, and Sprout Social—to determine their accuracy in detecting sentiment, predicting [...] Read more.
This study examines the role of AI tools in improving public communication via social media analysis. It reviews five of the top platforms—Google Cloud Natural Language, IBM Watson NLU, Hootsuite Insights, Talkwalker Analytics, and Sprout Social—to determine their accuracy in detecting sentiment, predicting trends, optimally timing content, and enhancing messaging engagement. Adopting a structured model approach and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) via SMART PLS, this research uses 500 influencer posts from five Arab countries. The results demonstrate the impactful relationships between AI tool functions and communication outcomes: the utilization of text analysis tools significantly improved public engagement (β = 0.62, p = 0.001), trend forecasting tools improved strategic planning decisions (β = 0.74, p < 0.001), and timing optimization tools enhanced message efficacy (β = 0.59, p = 0.004). Beyond the technical dimensions, the study addresses urgent ethical considerations by outlining a five-principle ethical governance model that encourages transparency, fairness, privacy, human oversee of technologies, and institutional accountability considering data bias, algorithmic opacity, and over-reliance on automated solutions. The research adds a multidimensional framework for propelling AI into digital public communication in culturally sensitive and linguistically diverse environments and provides a blueprint for improving AI integration. Full article
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15 pages, 710 KiB  
Article
Digital Activism for Press Freedom Advocacy in Post-Authoritarian Indonesia
by Masduki and Engelbertus Wendratama
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 101; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030101 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 594
Abstract
This article discusses the digital activism model for advocacy of press freedom in Indonesia. This study examined the model and characteristics of digital activism and inhibiting factors in advocacy of press freedom, carried out by civil society organizations, social activists, and media professionals. [...] Read more.
This article discusses the digital activism model for advocacy of press freedom in Indonesia. This study examined the model and characteristics of digital activism and inhibiting factors in advocacy of press freedom, carried out by civil society organizations, social activists, and media professionals. Using qualitative methods, this paper provides answers to the question of how is the digital activism model aimed at countering threats to press freedom in a post-authoritarian country with a case study of Indonesia? How does digital activism emerge and form cross-sector collaboration? Given the broad scope of digital activism in Indonesia, the researchers chose two cities that represent the national and regional/provincial spectrum, namely Jakarta as the nation’s capital and Yogyakarta as a prominent student city in the country. The current study found a unique digital activism model in Indonesia that is a spectator collaboration: participants and initiators of activism are involved together in clicktivism, metavoicing, and assertion. Social activists and independent media activists develop systematic collective actions in the digital realm, such as online petitions and press releases, republication, and fundraising for the sustainability of the activism itself. This paper also found a gladiatorial model: media managers as victims and activists merged with more organized social movements, signaling that press freedom has become a collective agenda of pro-democracy advocates in Indonesia. Full article
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22 pages, 1265 KiB  
Article
A Scathing Indictment: How European Opinion Leaders Framed Putin’s Aggression Against Ukraine
by Pere Franch, Marçal Sintes-Olivella, Klaus Zilles, Valentina Laferrara and Elena Yeste-Piquer
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 99; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030099 - 8 Jul 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1289
Abstract
Putin’s Russia annexed the Crimean Peninsula in 2014 and launched a massive invasion of Ukraine in 2022. This study is predicated on framing theory, which posits that the media contribute to the creation of individuals’ perceived reality. We analyzed how the European press [...] Read more.
Putin’s Russia annexed the Crimean Peninsula in 2014 and launched a massive invasion of Ukraine in 2022. This study is predicated on framing theory, which posits that the media contribute to the creation of individuals’ perceived reality. We analyzed how the European press presented Russian President Vladimir Putin during both episodes. Content analysis was used to examine a sample of 1009 opinion articles and editorials published in two leading newspapers in each of the five largest European economies. Subsequently, we quantified the frequency of the predominant frames as well as the tone (positive, neutral, or negative) the articles struck towards Putin. The results show that many more articles were published in 2022 than in 2014, and that the degree of negative views of Putin is also more pronounced in 2022. In both instances, historical motives were most often employed to frame Putin’s actions, such as Putin’s urge to reassert Russian influence in the former Soviet space and his reaction to the alleged lack of recognition of Russia as a superpower. Full article
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21 pages, 1772 KiB  
Article
Through Their Eyes: Journalists’ Perspectives on Framing, Bias, and Ethics in Media Coverage of Minorities
by Panagiota (Naya) Kalfeli, Christina Angeli and Christos Frangonikolopoulos
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 98; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030098 - 8 Jul 2025
Viewed by 603
Abstract
Global data reveal ongoing inequalities faced by minorities, often reinforced by media portrayals that depict them as threats, victims, or passive individuals without agency. While media framing has been extensively studied, especially in terms of media content and representation, few studies have examined [...] Read more.
Global data reveal ongoing inequalities faced by minorities, often reinforced by media portrayals that depict them as threats, victims, or passive individuals without agency. While media framing has been extensively studied, especially in terms of media content and representation, few studies have examined how journalists perceive and navigate the coverage of minorities. This study addresses that gap by examining how Greek journalists perceive mainstream media coverage of refugees and migrants, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with mental health challenges, with particular attention to their sourcing practices and sense of ethical responsibility. Fourteen journalists participated in semi-structured interviews, and thematic analysis was applied to identify key patterns. Journalists described dominant media narratives as fragmented, stereotypical, and dehumanizing, noting the frequent use of linguistic inaccuracies, misinformation, and the absence of personal stories. At the same time, they reported opportunities within their own sourcing practices to promote more inclusive and accurate coverage. Ethical concerns were expressed on three levels—union; corporate; and personal—with calls for clearer editorial guidelines and dedicated training. Many participants emphasized the role of personal ethics as a guiding compass in navigating complex newsroom pressures. Full article
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18 pages, 779 KiB  
Article
AI and Digital Literacy: Impact on Information Resilience in Indonesian Society
by Alem Febri Sonni, Muliadi Mau, Muhammad Akbar and Vinanda Cinta Cendekia Putri
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 100; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030100 - 8 Jul 2025
Viewed by 956
Abstract
This study examines the relationship between artificial intelligence (AI) media narratives and digital literacy levels in Indonesia, focusing on their combined impact on information resilience and misinformation vulnerability. Through a mixed-methods approach involving content analysis of five major Indonesian media outlets (2022–2024), a [...] Read more.
This study examines the relationship between artificial intelligence (AI) media narratives and digital literacy levels in Indonesia, focusing on their combined impact on information resilience and misinformation vulnerability. Through a mixed-methods approach involving content analysis of five major Indonesian media outlets (2022–2024), a survey of 384 respondents across South Sulawesi, and in-depth interviews with 15 media professionals, this research reveals significant gaps between AI media coverage and public understanding. The findings indicate that while 76% of Indonesian media coverage presents AI as a technological solution to misinformation, only 32% of the surveyed population demonstrates adequate digital literacy skills to evaluate AI-generated content critically. The study identifies three distinct patterns of AI media framing: technological optimism (47%), cautionary realism (33%), and dystopian skepticism (20%). These findings contribute to understanding how media narratives about emerging technologies influence public digital literacy and information resilience, particularly in developing digital economies where technological adoption often outpaces digital education initiatives. Full article
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17 pages, 265 KiB  
Article
News Curation in Digital Media: Analysis of Four Newspapers’ Front Pages
by Javier Guallar, Jesús Cascón-Katchadourian, Carlos Lopezosa and Juan-José Boté-Vericad
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 97; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030097 - 4 Jul 2025
Viewed by 381
Abstract
This study examines content curation on the front pages of four Spanish digital newspapers: two legacy media outlets, El País and La Vanguardia, and two purely digital, elDiario.es and El Español. This exploratory and unprecedented research aims to understand the characteristics of front-page [...] Read more.
This study examines content curation on the front pages of four Spanish digital newspapers: two legacy media outlets, El País and La Vanguardia, and two purely digital, elDiario.es and El Español. This exploratory and unprecedented research aims to understand the characteristics of front-page news curation in digital press in terms of themes, authorship and genre, origin and temporal range of curated content, types of sources used, the function of curated links, and techniques employed to add value to the presented information. The CAS (Curation Analysis System) methodology is used for content analysis of a selection of news items from different time slots and days of the week, following the constructed week method. The results provide a better understanding of the characteristics of curation on newspaper front pages, comparing them with other curation studies in journalistic products, such as media newsletters and live news. Full article
18 pages, 316 KiB  
Article
You’re Being Kinda Pushy: Exploring How News Outlets Frame Push Notifications as Credible Clickbait to Engage with Their Audiences
by Carl Knauf, Hunter Reeves and Brock Mays
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 96; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030096 - 4 Jul 2025
Viewed by 981
Abstract
Push notifications are a digital strategy for outlets to provide news and a convenient way for audiences to absorb information. Past research shows the effectiveness of push notifications and how they are framed, but few studies have explored their relationship with clickbait. However, [...] Read more.
Push notifications are a digital strategy for outlets to provide news and a convenient way for audiences to absorb information. Past research shows the effectiveness of push notifications and how they are framed, but few studies have explored their relationship with clickbait. However, clickbait often has a negative connotation. Through an exploratory mixed methods study involving textual analysis of push notifications (n = 639) sent by three credible mainstream media outlets, namely The Associated Press, The New York Times, and The Wall Street Journal, and a survey of readers’ (n = 368) perception of push notifications and clickbait, this research explores how credible news outlets directly engage with their respective audiences by framing push notifications in the form of clickbait. This study builds on framing theory by proposing the concept of credible clickbait and illustrating how push notifications shape readers’ immediate perceptions of content being shared with them by news outlets they subscribe to. This research also aims to be a resource for journalists to increase audience interaction and foster sustained attention with stories. Full article
23 pages, 306 KiB  
Article
Mediating Protest: Gezi Resistance and the Evolving Ecology of Video Activism in Turkey
by Ülkü Doganay and İlkay Kara
Journal. Media 2025, 6(3), 95; https://doi.org/10.3390/journalmedia6030095 - 25 Jun 2025
Viewed by 487
Abstract
This article traces the development of video activism in Turkey over the past two decades, focusing on its transformation during and after the 2013 Gezi Park protests. Situating video activism as a form of radical media, it examines how activists have used digital [...] Read more.
This article traces the development of video activism in Turkey over the past two decades, focusing on its transformation during and after the 2013 Gezi Park protests. Situating video activism as a form of radical media, it examines how activists have used digital recording technologies to document protests, amplify marginalized voices, and contest dominant narratives. Drawing on interviews with members of eight activist collectives, the article maps the evolving practices, ethics, and internal dynamics of video activism, paying close attention to tensions between visibility and security and between participation and professionalism. The Gezi protests marked a turning point, expanding video activism into a decentralized, diverse, and participatory field. In the aftermath, while collective structures weakened due to increasing repression and shrinking protest spaces, the use of video as a tool for testimony, expression, and archiving has continued to evolve. New actors, forms, and platforms have emerged, transforming video activism from a specialized practice into a broader, more diffuse form of engagement. This article argues that video activism remains a significant mode of mediated resistance, reflecting the challenges and the evolving potential of visual intervention in an ever-changing political landscape. Full article
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