Modafinil in the Media: Medicalisation and the Body
Author Information
Author(s): Catherine M. Coveney, Brigitte Nerlich, Paul Martin
Primary Institution: Institute for Science & Society, University of Nottingham
Hypothesis
How is modafinil discursively constructed in the British print media?
Conclusion
Media discourse on modafinil is structured through various metaphorical frames that influence its portrayal as either a medical treatment or a performance enhancement.
Supporting Evidence
- Media discourse on modafinil was structured through four types of sleep discourse: patient, sports, recreational, and occupational.
- Each discourse was built around three central metaphorical frames: 'war', 'commodity', and 'competition'.
- Medical authority legitimizes modafinil use for repair and restoration while criticizing its use in normally functioning bodies.
Takeaway
This study looks at how the media talks about modafinil, a drug that helps people stay awake, and how it affects our ideas about sleep and health.
Methodology
The study used metaphorical frame analysis to examine UK media coverage of modafinil.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in media framing could influence public perception of modafinil's legitimacy as a treatment or enhancement.
Limitations
The analysis is limited to media representations and may not reflect actual public perceptions or experiences.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website