Frame

Frame is a term used in various fields of study, including psychology, sociology, linguistics, and computer science. In the context of media studies, a frame refers to the way media and media gatekeepers organize and present the ideas, events, and topics they cover.

Definition

A frame in media studies is a broad organizing principle that is socially shared and persistent over time, that works symbolically to meaningfully structure the social world. Framing is an important topic since it can have a big influence and therefore the concept of framing expanded to organizations as well. Frames are abstractions that work to organize or structure message meaning.

Framing in Media Studies

In media studies, framing is a critical idea that refers to how journalists and news producers present a particular news story. They can choose to frame a story in different ways, which can influence how the audience perceives the story. For example, a news story about a protest could be framed as a violent disruption or as a peaceful demonstration, depending on the media outlet's perspective.

Framing in Psychology

In psychology, framing refers to the way decisions and judgments are influenced by how choices are phrased or presented. For example, people are more likely to choose a surgery if it is described in terms of survival rates rather than mortality rates.

Framing in Sociology

In sociology, framing is a schema of interpretation, a collection of anecdotes and stereotypes, that individuals rely on to understand and respond to events. In other words, people build a series of mental "filters" through biological and cultural influences. They then use these filters to make sense of the world.

Framing in Computer Science

In computer science, a frame is a digital data transmission unit in computer networking and telecommunication. In packet switched systems, a frame is a simple container for a single network packet.

See Also

• Media bias
• Propaganda
• Stereotype
• Cognitive bias
• Data packet