PERCEPTION OF SOCIAL MEDIA FRAMING OF VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN IN EDO STATE

ABSTRACT

The purpose of the study was to examine the perception of social media framing of violence against women in Edo State. The specific objectives of the study were to determine the extent of exposure of Edo residents to social media messages on violence against women; ascertain the social media channels through which Edo residents know about violence against women; find out the perception of Edo residents on the effectiveness of social media framing of violence against women; and determine the extent to which the exposure to social media framing of violence against women lead to a reduction in violence against women. In order to achieve these goals, four research questions were formulated. A questionnaire served as the data collection tool in this survey study. Three-hundred-and-six copies of questionnaires were distributed. Data were analysed and displayed using a straight percentage breakdown. The results showed that the women in Edo State are exposed to social media messages on violence against women to a moderate extent. Also, the major social media platforms used by women to view violence against women issues in Edo State include the WhatsApp and Facebook. Furthermore, the women perceive the effectiveness of social media framing of violence against women as negative. Lastly, the exposure of the women to social media framing of violence against women has slightly reduced violence against women. The study concluded, among other things, that improved laws and regulations, especially those that provide funds for victims, can result in the acknowledgement of violence against women as a widespread societal problem. Also, the media, via ethical framing, has an exceptional role to influence the public's views regarding violence against women and the society's contribution to preventative initiatives.