| Abstract [eng] |
Mass media transmits news to a large number of people. Mental illness is one of the most sensitive topics nowadays and it is being portrayed extensively. The role of the media is influencing public opinion about mental illness. At least 60% of the world population is affected by various issues of psychological disorders. Those types of illnesses bring a lot of stigma, shame, and myths to most people. This is being achieved through various media aspects, such as framing and cultivation. The basis of framing theory is that the media focuses attention on certain events and then places them within a field of meaning. The media draws the public attention to certain topics, including mental illness, frame in which the news is presented is a choice made by journalists. A frame refers to the way media and reporters organize and present the events. To illustrate, mental illness topics may be exploited and sensationalized. The mentally-ill would be compared as depraved, demented, or violent people. On another hand, cultivation theory studies how exposure to the world of television contributes to conceptions that viewers have about the real world. Often television stories provide a dominant set of cultural beliefs, values, and practices. For example, public opinion polls have shown that most people who watch television report negative views about the mentally ill. There is definitely the stigma of a mental disorder, but it is very much emphasized by the popular media and that only confirms that our views are vastly formed by television or newspapers alike. A content analysis of network, prime-time television demonstrates that portrayals are violent, false, and negative. The mentally disordered are portrayed to be a ten times more violent criminal than nonmentally disordered television characters. A survey demonstrates that as television viewing increases so does the belief among viewers that locating mental health services in residential neighborhoods will endanger the residents. Whether these negative images are found on TV, film, print, or other media, educating society about the reality of mental illness is essential. It is necessary to break down the barriers of ignorance, prejudice, or unfair discrimination by promoting education, understanding, and respect. The reasearch of Great Britain and Lithuania main newspapers and news portals has been made. According to findings, it„s correct to say that Lithuanian media on mental health issues developes unfavourable image of people having mental problems. Consequently, mental illness stigma is preserved Lithuanian media and thus attitudes towards mentally ill people are being createn. Great Britain in many ways has shown a good example of presenting people with mental illness in media. It's correct to define Great Britain meadia to be much more professional and competent rather than Lithuanian media on the issues about people having mental problems. |
