This mixed-method study assessed the relationship between the content in news articles about mental health and illness and the reading and sharing of this content by the news audience. It used Web analytics from three major Canadian news sites. Regression analysis indicated a tendency for social media users to share news about mental health and illness that was neutral in tone and that contained recovery and intervention as themes. Stories on mental health that had themes of violence and criminality, however, did not increase the article’s readership or online sharing. This research is considered in the context of the sociological process of making news, network gatekeeping, and uses and gratifications theory.

Sharing Recovery Stories Network gatekeeping of online news about mental illness

Author(s)

Gavin Adamson, Liam Donaldson, Robert Whitley

Year Published

Pre-2020

Publication Type

Journal Articles

Publication Name

Digital Journalism

Research Area

Journalism, Democracy & Ethics, News Audiences & Local Journalism
Link to Publication
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