Item
GENDERED MEDIA LITERACY AND ONLINE PARTICIPATION IN RISK-PRONE DIGITAL ENVIRONMENTS
- Author
- Adebimpe Desire Fashina & Olajide L. Ewedairo
- Year
- 2026
- Publisher
- KAIROS | MEDIA AND COMMUNICATION REVIEW
- DOI/Link
- 10.64370/BEMD1808
- Abstract
-
The growth of digital technologies has made information and communication facilities more accessible, making media literacy a major source of digital engagement and empowerment. Nevertheless, even with the similar accessibility and
technical skills, there are still significant gender differences in the online interaction
especially in the discussion of the public and politics. This paper explores the connection between media literacy, digital confidence and online participation through
a gendered perspective, discussing why participants with the same level of media literacy skills have varied levels of participation with particular attention to the role of
online harassment, self-efficacy and social norms. It used a mixed-methods approach,
which involves quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to obtain both quantifiable trends and experiences. The results indicate that men and women show the same
level of media literacy and misinformation detection, but women report lower levels of
digital confidence and are less involved in visible online behaviors. Online harassment,
and its threat, serves as a significant obstacle to engagement, resulting in self-censorship and less visibility. These trends are also supported by social norms that do not encourage women to express themselves assertively. Notably, non-participation tends to
be a strategic reaction to the risk perceived, but not necessarily lack of capability. The
research finds that digital participation is not only a skill-based process but also safety,
confidence, and structural conditions. It suggests gender sensitivity in media literacy
programs, increased online safety measures, and the encouragement of inclusive online spaces that allow all users to participate meaningfully. - Language
- ENGLISH
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