Dart Center for Journalism and Trauma

A resource for journalists who cover violence

Gateways for

Breaking Bad News

In Depth

May 24 2004

Breaking Tragic News

By Penny Cockerell

It’s near deadline. A story about a tragic killing comes across my desk and it’s my job to get comments from the family. I make the dreaded call and gently ask for reaction to the news — only to learn that the family doesn’t yet know. What now?
Booklet

Breaking Bad News

This booklet is intended to offer informal guidance in circumstances where journalists, their editors or managers are required to tell next-of-kin of the death of a colleague.

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Tragedies & Journalists

A 40-page guide to help journalists, photojournalists and editors report on violence while protecting both victims and themselves.

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Covering Children & Trauma

When children are victims of violence, journalists have a responsibility to report the truth with compassion and sensitivity.

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Dart Society Journalists Who Cover Violence

The Dart Society is comprised of journalists who have won fellowships and awards from the Dart Center. The Dart Society is not affiliated with Columbia University.

The Journalism School Columbia University

The Dart Center is a project of the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.

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Dart Center for Journalism and Trauma

Breaking Bad News

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Breaking Bad News

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Dart Society Journalists Who Cover Violence

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