The media construct a menstrual monster: a content analysis of PMS articles in the popular press

Abstract

A content analysis was conducted to evaluate the description of premenstrual syndrome in magazine articles which appeared during the years 1980-1987. Seventy-eight articles were identified and evaluated for their discussion of symptoms and treatments, the language and terms used in the articles and their titles, and the types of issues covered by different kinds of magazines. The results indicate a strong bias in favor of reporting negative menstrual cycle changes. Articles are generally negative in tone and present a confusing array of symptoms and contradictory treatment recommendations. The media coverage of PMS supports the stereotype of the maladjusted woman. Implications of this negative coverage are discussed and recommendations to improve media reports of PMS are made.