The International Journal of Digital Research (IJDR) is pleased to announce the publication of a new research article by Angela Ayimbire, titled “Gendered Consumption of Political Talk Shows: Media Malaise and Women’s Political Engagement in Ghana.”
The article appears in Volume 2, Issue 3 (2026) as part of the journal’s Special Section: Selected Papers from the Global Communication Association Conference 2026 and the European Writing Centers Association Conference 2026, hosted by the American University in Bulgaria (AUBG).
About the Research
Political talk shows play an important role in shaping public debate, political awareness, and democratic participation. However, confrontational discussions, sensationalism, partisan framing, and the underrepresentation of women’s perspectives may discourage meaningful engagement.
This study examines the relationship between media malaise, gendered media consumption, and women’s political engagement in Ghana.
Using a mixed-methods approach, the research draws on a survey of 93 women, a content analysis of 25 episodes from five Ghanaian political talk shows, and interviews with five media practitioners.
The findings highlight how hostile and male-dominated political discussions may contribute to political cynicism, discourage women’s participation, and reinforce inequalities in political communication.
The article emphasizes the importance of more inclusive political programming, gender-responsive media practices, and constructive democratic dialogue.
Special Conference Section
This publication contributes to IJDR’s special section:
Selected Papers from the
Global Communication Association Conference 2026
and the European Writing Centers Association Conference 2026
Hosted by the American University in Bulgaria (AUBG)
The special section brings together selected scholarly contributions addressing contemporary issues in communication, media, and related fields.
Read the Published Article
Author: Angela Ayimbire
Journal: International Journal of Digital Research
Volume: 2, Issue 3 (2026)
Pages: 114–134
Research Areas: Political Communication, Gender Studies, Media Studies
Article page:
https://ijdr.net/volume-2-year-2026/volume-2-issue-3/gendered-political-talk-shows-ghana/
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63711/ijdr.aubg.gca-ewca2026.02
Zenodo Repository:
https://zenodo.org/records/23492380
IJDR remains committed to promoting open-access scholarship, international academic collaboration, and the global dissemination of research across disciplines.
