A new reporting approach for journalistic impact: Bringing together investigative reporting and solutions journalism

Abstract

Investigative reporting identifies social problems and names people in power who should be held accountable. Solutions journalism is an evidence-based reporting approach that covers credible responses to social problems. To consider these reporting approaches in tandem, this research uses a quantitative content analysis to examine both investigative and solutions reporting in an effort to determine to what extent a combined reporting approach of these two genres may already exist in journalistic practice.

Revealing problems, pointing fingers, and creating impact A survey of investigative reporters/editors regarding journalistic impact

“…Objectivity is seen as the separation of facts from values. Yet, investigative journalism seeks to uphold watchdog values: public health, public safety and welfare, justice, equal access, the public treasury, and the honesty and integrity of our civic leaders (Walth et al, 2019). While investigative reporting is driven by upholding consensus values and morality, the work creates tension with the long-held doctrine of journalistic objectivity.…”