With a record-breaking number of anti-trans laws being proposed and passed in the several years, it is important to understand how news media are framing them. This study is a content analysis of news media representations of transgender people in sports in Arizona, with a focus on understanding how the news articles are constructed and what claims are being made within them. The purpose of this research is to investigate how the news media reflects and shapes the emerging debate about transgender inclusion in sports. The study uses a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative content analysis of news articles from major newspapers in Arizona. The results indicate that the majority of news articles were positive or neutral in nature regarding transgender inclusion in sports when reporting on the introduction of anti-trans bills in Arizona. This suggests that the media is not agreeing with the anti-trans legislation. The analysis also reveals the lack of transgender voices included in news articles related to anti-trans sports bans. This research highlights the need for responsible and accurate reporting in the media, particularly in shaping public opinion about policies related to transgender individuals in sports. It also emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive and supportive environments for transgender youth in sports.
Details
- A Content Analysis of News Media Representation of Transgender Athletes in Arizona: Exploring the Framing of Anti-Trans Sports Bills
- Mioni, Hanna (Author)
- Adelman, Madelaine (Thesis director)
- Himberg, Julia (Committee member)
- Barrett, The Honors College (Contributor)
- Department of Psychology (Contributor)
- College of Health Solutions (Contributor)