Navigating a Diverse Paradigm: A Conceptual Framework for Experimental Framing Effects Research

Abstract

This review introduces a conceptual framework with three elements to highlight the richness of the framing effects literature, while providing structure to address its fragmented nature. Our first element identifies and discusses the Enduring Issues that confront framing effects researchers. Second, we introduce the Semantic Architecture Model (SAM), which builds on the premise that meaning can be framed at different textual units within a text, which can form the basis of frame manipulations in framing effects experiments. Third, we provide an Inventory of Framing Effects Research Components used in framing effects research illustrated with salient examples from the framing effects literature. By offering this conceptual framework, we make the case for revitalizing framing effects research.

Success or Failure? News Framing of the COP26 Glasgow Summit and its Effects on Citizens’ Beliefs About Climate Change

“…While our findings add support for the presence of news framing effects in a realworld case outside the experimental setting (Lecheler and De Vreese 2019;McLeod et al 2022), this study primarily contributes to framing effects research by explicitly addressing the dynamics of news framing effects. More specifically, the study tested hypotheses derived from a psychological theory of dynamic news framing effects distinguishing between mental models and cognitive schemas (Matthes 2008; Scheufele Note.…”

“…While being repeatedly exposed to certain news frames appears to increase duration, competitive framing yields recency effects (Lecheler and De Vreese 2016). As summarized by McLeod et al (2022) in a recent review of framing effects: "Not only are these effects likely to be short-lived as time passes, they may dissipate as individuals are exposed to competing frames and other information after the experiment has concluded." (p. 12).…”

“…Our argument builds on a specific psychological account of dynamic news framing effects linking mental models to cognitive schemas over time (Scheufele and Scheufele 2010;Matthes 2007). Although news frames are likely to instantaneously influence specific issue perceptions and interpretations (Lecheler and De Vreese 2019;McLeod et al 2022), it is unclear whether such influences have discernable imprints on more generic issue beliefs-also several weeks after the summit has ended.…”