Child Presentation on Mainstream News Channels and Wellbeing of Victims

Abstract

Child abuse is one of those issues of society that is very difficult to talk about because it creates a sense of shame and guilt and so on but due to avoiding an open debate about it the spiral of silence is increasing over time. This research study aims at examining the way child abuse cases like Zainab case has been portrayed on news channels and the impact it leaves on the minds of victims. The researcher analyzed the BOL news channel, especially their news bulletins and headlines. The quantitative research methodology was used. Survey method was employed, 100 questionnaires were distributed among students of UMT. Cultivation theory has been used in order to draw the theoretical framework of this study. Findings suggested that the irresponsible role of media in this specific issue might cause great stress and other psychological disorders among the victim and their families.