Info-show in European television: searching for the social engagement of the audience

Abstract

Since the invention of television, the act of viewing has always been linked to a social component, becoming a socializing agent linked to a collective condition activity. This aspect has been increased markedly in recent years since the emergence and popularization of smartphones and social networks. These new devices have managed to extend the social possibilities linked to television, leading, among other things, to the transformation of modes of television consumption or forms of participation and role of the audience, shaping what is understood as Social Television. Focusing on the phenomenon, given its relevance, and taking into account the importance of audience participation in the info-show gender programs, this study analyzes and describes the ways of appealing to the social audience employed by producers and programmers in the most successful info-show programs in France, Spain, Italy, UK and Germany. With this, the article offers a comparative observation of the practices, patterns and modes of action carried out through the use of content analysis combined with specific analysis tools for the study of online platforms.