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Frontiers in Art Research, 2026, 8(3); doi: 10.25236/FAR.2026.080313.

The Representation of Women’s Experiences in Chinese Media Disaster Narratives—A Case Study of the Pingjiang Floods

Author(s)

Xinran Liu, Xinyu Shao

Corresponding Author:
Xinyu Shao
Affiliation(s)

Zhujiang College, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China

Abstract

This study examines women’s representation in coverage of the 2024 Pingjiang floods through qualitative media content analysis of one principal rescue report and four supporting articles. Focusing on character portrayal and the allocation of voice, it finds that pregnancy, physical condition and family relationships receive greater emphasis than women’s own interpretations and experiences. Supporting reports also document women’s survival efforts and occupational roles, complicating a wholly passive portrayal. The study argues that narrative prominence does not necessarily provide space for fuller expression of experience. It recommends disaster reporting that gives greater attention to survivors’ recollections, actions and needs.

Keywords

Disaster Narrative; Feminist Disaster Sociology; Pingjiang Floods; Politics of Representation

Cite This Paper

Xinran Liu, Xinyu Shao. The Representation of Women’s Experiences in Chinese Media Disaster Narratives—A Case Study of the Pingjiang Floods. Frontiers in Art Research (2026), Vol. 8, Issue 3: 96-100. https://doi.org/10.25236/FAR.2026.080313.

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