Media sensation in a time of heightened anxiety: analysing reports in three Western Cape newspapers

Human Sciences Research Council

doi:10.14749/32378382

May 22, 2026Open Access

Media sensation in a time of heightened anxiety: analysing reports in three Western Cape newspapers

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Key Points

This analysis aims to understand the role of media in shaping public perception during the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa.
Qualitative content analysis of reports from three Western Cape newspapers
Focus on themes of personal protection, death, economic impacts, and violence
Comparative examination of messaging consistency and conflicts
Reports primarily emphasized death and violence, contributing to public anxiety
Conflicting messages regarding personal protection created confusion among the audience
Economic challenges highlighted as a significant concern alongside health issues

Implication

Analysis reveals how COVID-19 reporting shaped public perception during heightened anxiety in South Africa.

Abstract

Since the outbreak of COVID-19 in South Africa, the media has been influential in sharing information around personal protection and curbing the spread of the pandemic. The public was bombarded with sometimes conflicting messages about the pandemic, with an initial focus on death, economic collapse and violence.

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Cite This Study

Human Sciences Research Council (2026) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/6a1295f648a0ea16656725f1 https://doi.org/10.14749/32378382

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Media sensation in a time of heightened anxiety: analysing reports in three Western Cape newspapers

Key Points

Implication

Abstract

Discussion

Cite This Study

Media sensation in a time of heightened anxiety: analysing reports in three Western Cape newspapers

Key Points

Implication

Abstract

Discussion

Cite This Study

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