Media Framing Of Same-Sex Relationships in Ghana: A Study of The Daily Graphic and the Daily Guide Newspapers

Abstract

This study examined framing of same-sex relationships by the Daily Graphic and the Daily Guide newspapers from January 1, 2011 to December 31, 2015. The factors that influenced coverage and framing of the practice were also investigated in order to provide a holistic and comprehensive picture of local media construction of the practice. Underpinned by framing theory, a mixed methods approach of content analysis and in-depth interviews was used in data collection and analysis. A total of 135 stories were analysed for tone, prominence, sources of information and frames. Eight transcripts of in-depth interviews conducted with media practitioners, were also analysed to determine the factors that influenced framing of same-sex relationships. The study found that same-sex relationships were framed more often in terms of morality, although other frames such as conflict, responsibility and human interest were also employed by the Daily Graphic and the Daily Guide. Not surprisingly and confirming findings from previous studies in Ghana and other parts of the world, the media portrayed same-sex relationships negatively and relied predominantly on sources other than homosexuals, the people who were often implicated in stories published, as sources of information. Religious leaders and politicians were mostly used as sources of information by both the Daily Graphic and the Daily Guide. The findings further revealed that factors such as the legal status of same-sex relationships in Ghana and the unwillingness of pro-gay and homosexual sources to grant journalists interviews influenced the coverage and framing of same-sex relationships by the two newspapers.