Evaluating the effects of solutions and constructive journalism: A systematic review of audience-focused research

Abstract

The study of constructive and solutions journalism has grown in recent years, led by claims of positive audience effects. Our systematic review of 22 effects experiments across 19 studies found that solutions and constructive news stories unequivocally affect audience emotions. Clarity is needed for other dependent variables. Consistency is needed in theoretical constructs and the independent variables used. Focus needs to continue to extend beyond the United States and Western Europe.