Asymmetrical gendered crime reporting and its influence on readers: A case study of Pakistani English newspapers

Abstract

Media plays a crucial role in information dissemination, reflection, or mass attitude in the growing economies. The present study intends to explore the representation of women in crime reporting and its influence on readership. A mixed-method approach is followed in data collection and analysis. Data are collected from four English newspapers over one month, and crime reports are analysed through discourse analysis and content analysis to identify the gender portrayal. Moreover, the readers' opinion is sought through semi-structured interviews with six experts from diverse fields. Recorded and transcribed data is analysed thematically. Findings show that women are underrepresented in crime reports, and their portrayal also strengthens gender stereotypes. Such representation affects the mental schema of readers, which in turn supports patriarchal order.