The methodology chapter gives a breakdown to the reader, on how the research process was conducted. This chapter provided a background to the steps involved in reaching the findings of the study which can be found in Chapter Four. The next chapter will provide the reader with the findings from the data analysis on how sexual and gender fluidity is represented in the Irish print media and the digital news sources used.
CHAPTER FOUR: FINDINGS AND DISCUSSION
4.1 Introduction
This chapter will provide the findings from the results of the thematic analysis of the data sample, as described in chapter three, the methodology.
This research began by examining print media articles, published in Ireland, relating to sexual fluidity and/or gender
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99). In general, in the media sex and sexuality are popular themes seen as of great importance a person, “the discourses of magazines and self-help books, as well as many screen dramas, make knowing one’s sexual identity of crucial importance to the inner happiness of the character” (Gauntlett, D., p.122). According to Gauntlett’s interpretation of the media, in order to be “fulfilled and happy” you need to focus on a number of things all in relation to your sexuality, he says that according to the media you need to “understand your own sexuality, have frequent sex, seek help for sexual problems and have a partner and a satisfied sex life with your partner – or get a new one” (Gauntlett, D., pp. 122-123). While it is not clear whether the media has a powerful influence over people or whether it is just circulating common held beliefs and attitudes about sexuality. In his book Media, Gender and Identity, Gauntlett argues that the rise in divorce rates could be a clear indication that people who are no longer happy with their partner or their sex life are making the decision to end the marriage, he also argues that the institution of marriage itself is in decline, believing that people are influenced by the modern day messages in the media that promote self-fulfilment as being a priority (Gauntlett, D., pp.