From Awareness to Anxiety: Media Portrayal of Harassment and Its Influence on Women's Perceptions in Multan

Purpose: This qualitative study examines the impact of the media portrayal on women's perception in Multan particularly from awareness to anxiety. Today media has a tremendous impact on the perception of social issues, in the context of harassment. The current study analyzed the impact of media representations of harassment cases and how it effects the emotional, psychological and behavioral reactions of women.Design/Methodology/Approach: The present study employed a qualitative research design. For data collection, the researcher conducted semi-structured interviews. Data were obtained from women in Multan 18-35 years of age. Afterwards, thematic analysis was used to analyses the participants' responses for themes.Findings: The results show that the role played by the media is double edged. Raising awareness through drawing attention to harassment, prompting discussion and providing victims a forum to share their experiences. Participants, however, reported that constant exposure to sensationalized and selective media coverage leads to greater fear and anxiety and a distorted understanding of normal safety. Results indicate that exposure to exaggerated images of harassment leads to higher levels of women's vulnerability, which then affects their affective and behavioral reactions to harassment, such as heightened cautiousness and mistrust.Implications/Originality/Value: So the study concluded that media increase public awareness about harassment, but it also causes panic and anxiety among the public. It points to the need for more responsible and balanced media reporting that does not prompt fear and biased perceptions among people.