Exploring Media Framing of Abortion Content on Kenyan Television: A focus on Adolescents

Abstract

Media framing of abortion messages is a rapidly emerging field of research. However, studies are limited in number and scope. Previous studies are predominantly quantitative and have majorly been conducted in the USA. Notably lacking in this area of study is literature from Sub- Saharan Africa and especially studies that include adolescents. This study, therefore, sought to investigate the framing of abortion in Kenyan televised news media, and to examine adolescents’ perceptions and experiences with abortion coverage on Kenyan televised news media. This qualitative study was conducted in Nairobi and Uasin Gishu counties of Kenya. Purposive sampling was used to select 55 news items from three leading media outlets aired between January 2016 to December 2019, for content analysis. Additionally, convenience sampling was used to select 37 university-going adolescents for four Focus Group Discussions. The data was transcribed, translated (where necessary) and analyzed thematically. The analysis established that Kenyan televised news media predominately frames abortions negatively. First, it’s depicted as dangerous to women’s physical, mental, and social outcomes. Secondly, Kenyan women are portrayed as victims of an abortion law that compromises their bodily autonomy and access to abortion. Lastly, men are shown as perpetrators of reproductive coercion and abuse against women. There were various recommendations to end unsafe abortion. One, the institutionalization of an enabling legal and policy framework. Two, acknowledgement of abortion as a public health issue. Three, recognition of the socio-cultural influence on abortion. Finally, inclusion of young people in policy development and implementation. Furthermore, televised news media’s framing of abortion was perceived as having an impact on the public’s understanding, attitudes, and behaviors around abortion. In conclusion, beyond laying groundwork for future studies in media framing of abortion in Sub-Sharan Africa, the findings from this study have the potential to facilitate more critical reflection and discussions on (un)safe abortion with a probable effect on health and social policies around abortion. The findings are informative for those who wish to develop media aimed at promoting Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights, especially safe abortion among adolescents.