Content Analysis in the Research Field of Social Movements Communication

AbstractThis chapter provides a brief overview of the use of content analysis in a selection of studies on social movement communication. In doing so it provides examples of representative studies along four categories: 1) studies aimed at answering traditional questions in the area of social movements research; 2) research answering traditional questions in the area of communication studies; 3) research examining the use and effects of “new” tools and technology; and finally, 4) studies discussing methodological opportunities and challenges posed by digital media. The chapter then identifies the main trends in methodology in this area and concludes by discussing the many strengths, and some areas for improvement within the field.