Framing the population debate: a comparison of source and news frames in the Philippines

Abstract

This study compares frames constructed by two sides of the Philippine population management debate with media frames of the issue. Analysis was conducted through neural network analysis with the CatPac computer program. On the one hand, supporters of the policy use a ‘development frame’ which defines population as a problem borne out of people having large families; it is argued that unchecked population growth negatively impacts on development outcomes such as education and income. In the development frame, the proposed solution is to institute a population management policy that promotes family planning (contraceptive use) to help Filipinos achieve their desired family size. Opponents on the other hand use two frames, one which equates the policies with abortion, and another which argues that such policies will lead to a degradation of moral values. Results delineate the competing frames from both sides and show that the media frame reflects both views, but that the discourse is presented as conflict.

Keywords:

• framing
• network analysis
• population

Acknowledgements

This study is supported jointly by the Institute of Philippine Culture of the Ateneo de Manila University and the University of the Philippines Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Development through grants to David and La Viña.