Advertising agency engagement and regulatory empowerment in the world of new media

Abstract

This paper examines how new media has impacted advertiser behaviours in relation to controversial advertising. This research seeks to explore the extent of advertiser engagement and regulatory empowerment in a new media environment, where an advertiser can show offensive advertising online via new media despite a ban by the self regulatory body in relation to traditional media. Specifically, we conduct ten interviews with members of the advertising industry to develop an understanding of this engagement and empowerment. Findings suggest that advertisers are very aware that new media creates an opportunity for engagement, however, feedback is interpreted subjectively to rationalise continued dissemination of offensive advertising messages and therein advertisers are empowered.