Content analysis examines communication through explicit corpus, sampling, coding, reliability, and inference rules. It can identify patterns beyond word counts, using human or computational procedures. Consistent coding alone does not establish construct validity, and message properties require additional evidence before supporting claims about audiences or causal effects.
- FamilyTool
- CategoryResearch & Analysis Methods
- DomainEvidence & Evaluation
What these mean
Editorial orientation · Family
Tool
In this series, Tool names the editorial family primarily used to act on, examine, measure or organize communication. It includes instruments, methods, practices, protocols, codes and institutional arrangements. Membership does not certify effectiveness, portability or safe use in every setting.
Editorial orientation · Category
Research & Analysis Methods
Establishes procedures for collecting, coding, comparing or interpreting information for inquiry or analysis. Its contribution is a defensible route from observations or materials to an account, finding or interpretation.