Middle East Journal of Communication Studies
DOI
10.71220/2585-005-002-005
Abstract
This study aims to analyze how the Jordanian digital press addresses mental illness in the post-Coronavirus pandemic, in light of the growing need for professional media coverage that promotes community awareness of mental health. The study relied on content analysis as one of the appropriate methods to examine media messages and extract the semantic patterns inherent in the texts. A content analysis questionnaire and screener were used to categorize journalistic materials according to a number of professional and content indicators. The study sample included Al-Rai and Ammon news websites as two of the most prominent digital news platforms in Jordan, and all published materials related to mental health during 2021 were analyzed using an industrial week.
The results of the study showed several prominent indicators, the most important of which are the first: The low volume of press coverage of mental illnesses, with only 71 articles throughout the year, with an average of less than one article per week, which reflects the low priority of these issues in the media agenda. The press treatment focused on common disorders such as anxiety and depression, while ignoring more complex disorders such as psychosis and post-traumatic stress disorder, indicating a knowledge and professional gap in the media's presentation. In addition to the lack of effective use of interactive digital media, such as video and infographics, the coverage is limited to static images, which weakens the visual and awareness-raising effect of media messages about mental health.
Recommended Citation
Shatnawi, Sura Mohammad
(2026)
"The reality of digital journalism in Jordan's treatment of mental illness after the coronavirus pandemic (an analytical study),"
Middle East Journal of Communication Studies: Vol. 5:
No.
2, Article 5.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.71220/2585-005-002-005
Available at:
https://mejcs.meu.edu.jo/home/vol5/iss2/5