A Comprehensive and Critical Literature Review on Framing Theory in the Digital Media Age

This literature review provides a comprehensive analysis of framing theory in the context of digital media over the past 20 years by drawing on approximately 60 studies. Framing theory, which explains how media presentation influences audience interpretation, has evolved significantly with the rise of digital platforms, such as social media, online news, and user-generated content. The key themes explored included the participatory nature of framing on social media, the impact of algorithmic curation, the intersection of framing with misinformation, cross-cultural dynamics, and methodological challenges in studying digital framing. One notable aspect of the review is its examination of the role social media plays in public opinion formation, emphasizing how users not only consume but also actively contribute to the framing processes. Algorithmic framing, where automated systems influence the prominence and visibility of certain frames, is another critical area of focus. The review also delves into how misinformation can be framed to either enhance or undermine its credibility, presenting a complex challenge for researchers and practitioners alike. Additionally, the review highlights the cultural and methodological complexities involved in studying framing across different digital environments, noting that a one-size-fits-all approach is insufficient. By identifying critical gaps such as the need for more longitudinal studies and cross-cultural research, the review proposes future directions for advancing framing theory in an increasingly fragmented and digital media landscape.