What a Difference a Day Makes? The Effects of Repetitive and Competitive News Framing Over Time

Abstract

Based on a "classic" framing experiment (N = 1,324), this study empirically mimics the dynamic nature of framing effects over time. We integrate (a) multiple frame exposures as well as (b) various tests for duration of framing effects into our study design. Our results show that exposure to repetitive frames does not systematically strengthen effects on opinion formation. However, effects can get stronger when the delay between two exposures is short. Competitive news framing is characterized by recency effects; that is, the latest frame has the strongest impact on opinion formation. Political knowledge functions as a moderator for both effect mechanisms. Participants with higher levels of political knowledge are less prone to recency effects, but show stronger signs of a cumulative framing effect. The results of this study have important methodological and substantive ramifications for framing effects research, as well as for our understanding of the real-life impact of framed media messages on opinions.

The Kalamazoo Promise and Changing Perceptions of the Kalamazoo Public Schools

“…1 (Lecheler and de Vreese 2013). As the literature shows, the media has agenda-setting capabilities and influences issue salience.…”

The Repetition and Competition of News Reporting as Mediator to Frame Setting

“…The findings of prospect theory introduced by and Tversky and Kahneman (1981) show that each frame by the media has a value in it, be it positive or negative. Lecheler and de Vreese (2012) however opine that exposure to repeated frame yields more effect in frame setting. According to both of them, the effect of repeated exposure will be stronger, especially in changing an attitude and behavior.…”

“…Accordingly, a variety of other internal and external factors can be assumed to influence the effectiveness thereof sparking the debate of mediators that existed in frame setting. Lecheler and de Vreese (2012) studied accessibility as a mediator as well as the importance of faith and belief content. Chong and Druckman (2007) looked at the competition of political environment mediators.…”

“…Later on, Chong and Druckman (2012) also identify counter frames as mediators. Some researchers who believe the competition and the repetition of frames are mediators on the effect of frame setting such as Lecheler and de Vreese (2012).…”

“…Lecheler and deVreese (2012) also concluded that competition of conflicting frames and exposure to pro and con news frames actually remove or minimize the effect of frames. When there is a conflict between the two frames, audiences have the tendency to consistence reject both the frames (Lecheler & de Vreese, 2012).…”