Dart Center for Journalism and Trauma

Covering Trauma: Impact on Journalists

By River Smith and Elana Newman

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.

PTSD 101

The Reporter's Humanitarian Role

By Frank Ochberg

Journalists and therapists face similar challenges when they realize their subjects are at risk of further injury. Techniques may differ, but objectives are the same: to inform about sources of help. A therapist is not a lawyer or a security consultant, but a battered woman and an abused child need to know that shelters, restraining orders and a network of advocates are available. Therapy includes such referrals.

Self-Study Unit 2: Covering Terrorism

VI. Care of the Self

By Elana Newman and Chris Bull

Journalists like Arce who were immersed in the events of 9/11 relied upon a variety of coping strategies, of which individual therapy is just one.

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.

Conflict/Disaster

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

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.

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).

Covering Children & Trauma

II. Confidentiality

By Ruth Teichroeb

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.

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Media Studies

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

Self-Study Unit 4: The First 24 Hours

Sources and Resources

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