omkaderings

Omkaderings is a concept in Dutch-language media and communication studies that refers to framing: the way a message is presented so that certain aspects are highlighted and others downplayed, thereby shaping how audiences understand an issue. The term derives from om- (“around”) and kader (“frame”). In practice, omkadering involves choices about context, terminology, visuals, and narrative structure.

In journalism and public communication, omkadering determines which dimensions of a story are foregrounded, such as economic impact, security, or human interest. In politics and policy discourse, it can set the frame for public debate, influencing issue interpretation, priorities, and policy support. Researchers study omkadering by analyzing language, images, and the sequence of information, as well as through experiments on how different frames affect opinions and behavior. It is closely related to framing theory, agenda-setting, and priming in communication research.

Omkaderings can be intentional (strategic communication) or emerge from cultural norms and media practices. It can reflect or reproduce power relations, and critical approaches examine whose perspectives are framed and whose are marginalized. Critics warn that framing may obscure complexities or manipulate perceptions, underscoring the need for transparency, reflexivity, and media literacy.

See also: framing, framing theory, agenda-setting, priming, discourse analysis.