Semester
Spring
Date of Graduation
2023
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Type
MS
College
Reed College of Media
Department
Communication Studies
Committee Chair
Dr. Geah Pressgrove
Committee Member
Emily Corio
Committee Member
Dana Coester
Committee Member
Dr. Sharon Bird
Abstract
An experiment was used for this study to explore if the gender of a reporter impacts perceived source credibility and thus trust in information. Previous research has shown how gender biases can affect how topics are covered, reported on, perceived and marketed in the journalistic world. Modern media and newsrooms are meant to mirror reality as they convey information to the public, yet women continue to be gatekept out of reporting on certain types of news. Further, changes in the mode of delivery of news are also impacting the journalism landscape. Thus, this study employed a digital stimulus to explore if gender bias impacts perceived trust and credibility of media information, updating dated scholarship in the area. The data shows that in this particular digitally focused inquiry, gender did not significantly impact the audience’s perceived credibility, but higher credibility did link to an increase in trust in the information provided. Future implications and limitations are discussed.
Recommended Citation
Urse, Madison R., "Source Credibility and Trust of Media Information Based on Gender of Reporter" (2023). Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports. 11802.
https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/etd/11802
Included in
Appalachian Studies Commons, Communication Technology and New Media Commons, Digital Humanities Commons, Gender, Race, Sexuality, and Ethnicity in Communication Commons, Journalism Studies Commons, Mass Communication Commons, Social Influence and Political Communication Commons