Introduction

Traditionally, social science has been an "obstinately verbal" field in which scholars have shown a clear preference for the analysis of words over visuals. Various definitions of frames and framing circulate in the academe. Frames seem natural to those whose ideas, norms, or values they reference. They organize social reality, simplifying complex matters by emphasizing certain aspects and disregarding others. The treatment recommendations, especially, give frames their functional character by making certain policies, attitudes, or behaviors seem like the natural response to the problem. Visuals can convey frames by themselves. Character frames organize social reality and make certain policies, attitudes, or behaviors seem like the natural response to the problem described or portrayed. Investigating character frames is worthwhile as the way in which journalists and other actors communicate about those most directly affected by an issue can impact audiences' perception of the issue as a whole more than baseline statistics.