Research & Insights

A new study offers insight into how brands manage their image during times of crisis
In March 2020, people around the world retreated to their homes for the first lockdown of the COVID-19 pandemic. As we adapted to our new conditions, staying inside for several weeks, advertisers also had to adapt to the unique situation. Between March 2020 and July 2021, hundreds of pandemic-themed ads were created, using messaging like “we’re all in this together” or “these are unprecedented times.” Now, more than five years after the initial lockdown, ads like these give researchers the opportunity to examine impression management strategies during times of crisis, and a new study out of UF does just that.

New Worlds of Journalism Study sheds light on the state of journalism around the world
The field of journalism is in a constant state of change, always adapting to new technologies and shifts in culture and public opinions. Since 2007, the Worlds of Journalism Study (WJS) has dedicated itself to tracking these changes by creating a comprehensive report on the state of journalism around the world, with the aim of keeping journalists informed on trends within the field. In October 2025, wave three of the Worlds of Journalism Study was published, with researchers from over 120 countries showcasing their findings.

Yuan Sun points at a photo of coffee beans on this study's mocked-up website while Yang Feng looks on.

Generative AI may help turn consumers into active collaborators and creators, study finds
In the advertising world, generative AI is transforming the way brands connect with consumers, turning audiences from passive viewers into active creators who can shape and personalize campaign content.

Cast photo from the 2021 reboot of 'The Wonder Years' television show.

How “The Wonder Years” Reboot Redefined Black Masculinity
Television reboots often rekindle nostalgia, but the 2021 reboot of “The Wonder Years” did something more ambitious: it reimagined Black masculinity and family life during the Civil Rights era. A recent study reveals how storytelling by the mass media can reclaim Black history and challenge common negative portrayals of Black men.