Media Channels and their Potency in Portraying Gender Based Violence Against Women among Uitenhage Residents in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa - Research

The media plays a central role in informing the public about what happens in the world while it is also criticised for its portrayal roles at times as in the case of gender based violence. However, there are various mass media channels which are used to keep the audience informed. This study therefore examines the awareness of these channels amongst residents of Uitenhage, in the Eastern Cape, South Africa as well as comparing their views on the extent to which these media channels expose them to gender based violence. Mixed method research approach was employed and questionnaires were subsequently distributed to collect data from the respondents. In addition, one focus group discussion was conducted in the same community. Findings revealed that the residents are more aware of social media and broadcast media and their portrayal of gender-based violence. This study contributes to the body of knowledge by highlighting the role of the media and its various channels in portraying this global menace called gender based violence and its influence on people in Uitenhage.