DefinePK

Research Objective

To identify and analyze how climate change issues are framed in Pakistan's English print media, specifically in the newspapers Dawn and Express Tribune, and to understand the predominant themes and narratives used.

Methodology

Quantitative and qualitative content analysis was performed on selected news stories and opinion pieces from Dawn and Express Tribune. Systematic coding and thematic content analysis were used to categorize themes and framing strategies. An inter-coder reliability test was conducted with two coders on two news stories.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD
    A["Collect News Stories from Dawn & Express Tribune"] --> B["Systematic Coding of Stories"];
    B --> C["Thematic Content Analysis"];
    C --> D["Identify Frames Scientific, Economic, Political, Human-interest"];
    D --> E["Analyze Frame Dominance per Newspaper"];
    E --> F["Draw Conclusions on Framing Strategies"];                    

Discussion

The study's findings align with previous research on media framing of climate change. Dawn's scientific framing provides concrete, research-based information, potentially improving public awareness and informing policy. Express Tribune's political and human-interest framing elicits emotional appeal and personal connection, making the issue more relatable. The use of diverse framing strategies by different media outlets is crucial for effective climate change communication.

Key Findings

Four dominant frames emerged: Scientific, Economic, Political, and Human-interest. Dawn predominantly used Scientific frames, focusing on data and research. Express Tribune primarily focused on Political and Human-interest frames, including government laws, community effects, and individual stories. Both newspapers consistently emphasized the economic repercussions of climate change.

Conclusion

The research highlights the distinct framing strategies employed by Dawn and Express Tribune in reporting climate change. Dawn's scientific approach and Express Tribune's political and human-interest focus demonstrate different media outlets' approaches to constructing climate change narratives. The consistent emphasis on economic implications by both newspapers underscores its importance. These insights are valuable for media practitioners, policymakers, and climate change communicators in Pakistan to enhance public awareness and policy development.

Fact Check

1. Publication Date: The article was published in June 2024. (Confirmed by journal details)
2. Newspapers Analyzed: The study analyzed news stories from Dawn and Express Tribune. (Confirmed by methodology and results sections)
3. Dominant Frames: Four dominant frames were identified: Scientific, Economic, Political, and Human-interest. (Confirmed by findings and results sections)

Mind Map