Balancing visibility with vigilance: The neutral advantage in framing transgender athletes

This study investigates how media frames shape public perceptions of individuals featured in news coverage, focusing on transgender representation. In a between-subjects experimental design, researchers randomly assigned participants to read one of three versions of a mock news article that differed only in framing—positive, negative or neutral. Afterward, participants completed a questionnaire assessing perceptions of the article, evaluations of the featured athlete and agreement with stereotype-based statements. Data analysis examined whether framing significantly influenced credibility judgments, perceived likability and stereotype endorsement. By showing how subtle editorial choices shape audience perceptions and affective responses, this study advances research on media effects and framing theory and highlights journalists’ ethical responsibilities when covering marginalized groups.