Gatekeeping in live Television Talk Shows: A study of two television stations in Kenya

Abstract

Throughout the world, there has been a surge in the growth of independent media, fuelled by greater democratic gains and advances in technology. This exponential growth and free operational space have put pressure on the media to develop effective media cultures and practices. Arising from this background, this study investigated gatekeeping at KTN and NTV television stations in Kenya. The following research questions guided the study: What is the role of gatekeeping in live television talk shows in Kenya?; How does gatekeeping manifest in live television talk shows in Kenya?; What is the perception of journalists on gatekeeping in live television talk shows in Kenya? The research was guided by the Gatekeeping theory and the Social Responsibility Theory. The qualitative research approach was chosen for this study and the research method was a multiple case study. Purposive sampling was used to pick 12 television journalists working as producers, editors and show hosts as participants for the study. In-depth interviews were held with the participants and the data generated was analysed using thematic analysis and presented in narrative form. The findings revealed that gatekeeping in live television talk shows is used to manage content and to ensure only ethical and quality content is broadcasted to the public. Gatekeeping is also used to prevent misinformation and as a tool to protect the image of the media house. The study also found that the gatekeeping practice manifests in live talk shows through external censorship, self-censorship, fact-checking, disclaimers by show hosts and the use of delay technology. Further, the participants were of the view that even though gatekeeping was instrumental in live television talk shows, it was hampered by a lack of appropriate technology, inadequate training, and unethical gatekeeping practices. Even more, participants stated that gatekeeping was practised haphazardly, without clear, agreed-upon policies and procedures. Therefore, newsroom managers need to develop effective policies and guidelines that ensure the gatekeeping practices create trust between audiences and media organisations. There is a need for media managers to upscale gatekeepers‘ skills through regular training and investing in research and innovation.