Portrayal of Sensitive Topics in Pakistani Morning Shows: Ethical Considerations

Abstract

Pakistani morning shows tackle a complex range of ethical dilemmas and societal consequences that require thorough investigation, frequently involving sensitive subjects. These shows are an essential tool for the public to engage with complex subjects including child abuse, honour killing, domestic violence, and other painful situations. These programs offer the viewers an opportunity to speak about uncomfortable issues like mental health issues, child abuse, domestic violence and too many others and unpleasant incidents. The study addresses the portrayal of sensitive topics in Pakistani Morning Shows to examine the nature and ethical implications. Therefore, the purpose of present study is to analyze such cultural taboos in light of ethical concerns existing in Pakistani morning shows. This research aims to explore the kind of topics discussed as well as the theme, a way it presents the narrative, and conversational tone. Therefore, this qualitative study uses thematic content analysis to identify the given themes, narrative and tones. Purposive sampling method was used while selecting morning shows then followed by time of six months period (July 2024-December, 2024). Primary data collected from Roshan Sawera Morning Show Bol entertainment TV Pakistan and Subh ka Samaa Morning Show Samaa TV Pakistan. The finding of this study shows that Pakistani morning shows discuss topics of concern like mental health, domestic violence, and women’s rights with different levels of ethical considers, whereby emotional stories shared alongside expert opinions but sometimes-dramatic narratives might overpower discussion.