Newspaper use of fear appeal in coverage of LGBT issues

Abstract

This study not only provides an updated look at Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender issues in the media, but this study also analyzes the use of fear appeal used in the representation of these issues in the top three circulating newspapers in the U.S (The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today). The results show that these newspapers did not use fear appeal when reporting on LGBT issues; however, newspapers were more likely to use elements of fear-arousing communication (e.g. threats) when referring to an opposing viewpoint. With these findings, this study offers up further avenues to explore fear appeals used in the media’s coverage of LGBT issues.