Preparing for Risks and Building Resilience

Abstract

Journalists confront terror and war to report and document what is happening. Covering traumatic events is dangerous for the reporters on the scene and may leave them with distress responses. The aim of this study is to investigate the coping strategies journalists use to deal with danger and traumatic stress and to build resilience. Through in-depth interviews with journalists covering crisis and violent events, the article looks at the physical, practical and trauma aspects of crisis journalism, and contributes to the complex understanding of risk and resilience for journalists. The study is based on interviews with nine reporters from five countries. Between them, they have covered several conflicts, terror attacks and wars. The study shows that they use a variety of strategies. Memories from unpredictable assignments stick with them. However, eight would cover traumatic events again, and the majority have experienced post-traumatic growth. My results show that informal peer support is crucial, but media organizations have a long way to go to ensure adequate support.

Challenges, Adaptability, and Resilience of Campus Journalists Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic

“…It is essential to prioritize mental health initiatives to uphold journalism professionals' resilience and productivity. Frey (2023) delved into the stressors experienced by journalists and the coping strategies they utilize. The study emphasizes the significance of providing mental health support to this profession.…”

“…The research findings suggest that journalists can experience personal growth and professional development as a result of facing adversity. A study conducted by Frey (2023) highlights that journalists frequently experience growth due to facing challenges, which leads to the development of resilience and adaptability. Due to the pandemic, student journalists were compelled to adapt and acquire fresh abilities, mirroring the broader shift in the media sector towards digitalization (Pedroso & Pacit, 2022).…”

Relationship between resilience, social support and job burnout among journalists in Greece

“…According to Smith et al (2018) between 86% and 100% of journalists are exposed to traumatic workrelated events over their careers. Journalists are frequently exposed to distressing situations, react promptly, and can be considered rst responders akin to emergency personnel (Frey, 2023). As rst responders, journalists often encounter traumatizing scenes and face the risk of injury or death, frequently without having adequate training (Smith et al, 2018).…”

“…Resilience refers to how one acts during a traumatic event and the subsequent capacity to adjust effectively (Frey, 2023). Being resilient entails having the capability for positive adjustment, enabling an individual to live a good life following a traumatic experience.…”

“…2023;Hughes et al, 2021;Idås et al, 2019;McMahon & Lyall., 2019). Literature also describes that journalists do not received formal support concerning professional stress and require greater support from media organizations(Frey, 2023). In line with research in other elds, lack of access to formal support is also common among emergency personnel(Hight et al, 2004; R Simpson & Coté, 2006)…”