Resources

  • Fact Sheet

    Jan 1 2009

    Covering Trauma: Impact on Journalists

    An overview of current research on the occupational hazards for journalists covering traumatic events, the risk factors that aggravate those effects and some suggestions for mitigating those factors.

  • Online Learning

    Self-Study Unit 1: Journalism & Trauma

    IV. Tips on Interviewing

    Because of the nature of news, it is likely that a journalist will have to interview trauma victims in the course of his or her work. Interviewing someone who is under psychological stress is difficult for both the interviewee and the interviewer. As interviewers, journalists can help victims and survivors tell their stories in a way that is constructive.

  • Journal Library

    Conflict/Disaster

    A list of academic publications that deal with emergency management, conflict resolution, military psychology and medicine, and peace studies.

  • Booklet

    Breaking Bad News

    VII. Length of Meeting & Endings

    You will need to use your judgement how long to stay — and how long the family wants you to be there.

  • Online Learning

    Self-Study Unit 4: The First 24 Hours

    The first 24 hours after a traumatic news event may present a journalist with considerable challenges and opportunities, both professionally and personally. The usual physical and psychological demands of trying to gather facts and write a story under deadline are greatly magnified when trauma is involved, especially when a large number of victims are dead or seriously injured (although even a single victim can be difficult to cover).

  • Tip Sheet

    Covering Children & Trauma

    II. Confidentiality

    The biggest hurdle when covering tragedies involving children is getting access to information. Stricter confidentiality laws govern everything from their school and hospital records to court and child-welfare files.

  • Journal Library

    Media Studies

    A list of academic publications with emphasis on issues facing journalists.

  • Online Learning

    Self-Study Unit 4: The First 24 Hours

    Sources and Resources

    Sources and resources for Self-Study Unit 4: The First 24 Hours.

  • Tip Sheet

    Tragedies & Journalists

    I. Interviewing

    Always treat victims with dignity and respect - the way you want to be treated in a similar situation. Journalists will always seek to approach survivors, but reporters should do it with sensitivity, including knowing when and how to back off.

  • Online Learning

    Self-Study Unit 3: Photography & Trauma

    II. Memorable Photographs

    One of the best ways to assess the power of photographs is to see some examples. Here are links to web sites that feature award-winning and memorable images that have made an impact on people’s lives.