https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4762-7807
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Abstract
A persuasive campaign with elements of propaganda was waged on social media against Hillary Clinton during the 2016 U.S. presidential race, partially through a Russian-financed effort to discredit her. This study analyzed doctored images (memes) posted on Twitter about Clinton during the general election campaign. Through qualitative content analysis, researchers sought to identify whether negative memes reflected socially constructed gender stereotypes. Results show gendered frames used in memes against Clinton were based on female biological/physical traits (weak, ill, unattractive), anti-feminine traits (dishonest, untrustworthy), and negative female politician traits (dictatorial, unqualified) that were incongruent with the perceived role of the presidency.
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Notes on contributors
Rebecca Coates Nee
Rebecca Coates Nee (Ed.D. Pepperdine University) is an associate professor at San Diego State University. Her research centers around social media and elections, disinformation online, and social TV.
Mariana De Maio
Mariana De Maio (Ph.D. University of Florida) is an assistant professor at Lehigh University. Her research interests include media influence on political behaviors and journalism practices.