What does framing refer to in media studies?

• A. The process of verifying facts.
• B. The way information is presented to emphasize certain aspects and shape interpretation.
• C. The layout of a page.
• D. The style of writing.

Answer: (B)

Framing in media studies refers to how information is presented to emphasize certain aspects and shape interpretation. By deciding what to foreground, what to highlight, and what to leave out, media outlets guide how audiences understand a story. This includes choices about which facts to stress, which images to pair with the text, the wording and language used, and the broader context that’s provided or omitted. Because of framing, the same event can feel different depending on the angle chosen, influencing perceptions of causes, responsibility, and possible solutions.

For example, framing a protest as a threat to public safety tends to push toward calls for tougher policing, while framing it as a legitimate social expression might lead audiences to focus on rights and policy responses. This concept is distinct from merely verifying facts (fact-checking), arranging where things appear on a page (layout), or choosing a writing style or tone (voice).