Media and headline framing

Overclaim

A claim that goes beyond what the evidence can support.

What it means

Definition

Overclaim: An overclaim may turn early, limited, or indirect evidence into a stronger-sounding public message. deHype reports look specifically for this gap.

What it can tell you

It can help explain why a report is cautious even when the underlying study is real.

What it cannot tell you

It cannot replace reading the source evidence, methods and limitations.

Headline trap

Why this matters in headlines

A cell study about a nutrient becomes an overclaim if reported as a proven human anti-ageing treatment.