Trauma is a type of damage to the mind that occurs as a result of an extremely distressing event.
Often the result of an overwhelming amount of stress, trauma causes an ability to cope, or comprehend the emotions involved with the experience.
As journalists, it is our duty to inform the public and convey the facts in instances regarding trauma.
But it is also our duty to do no harm to the public.
This clash of values puts journalists in a philosophical dilemma when interviewing those who have been traumatised.
Through the DART Center for Journalism and Trauma, numerous guidelines have been set in place to help journalists when interviewing those who have experienced trauma.
Here are some of the guidelines below.
People who have gone through trauma have a right to decline being interviewed, photographed or filmed
Be accurate and don’t feign compassion
Phrases like “I’m sorry this happened to you” are much better than “How do you feel?” or “I know how you feel”
Witnesses and survivors are likely to be in shock in the immediate period after a traumatic event, and may not be in a state to be interviewed, filmed or photographed
Avoid the pack mentality
Be as respectful and gentle as possible
Allow those who have been affected to allow them to have some say in when, where and how they’re interviewed, photographed or filmed
Thoroughly check and re-check facts, names, times, places and more
For more information, visit: https://dartcenter.org/
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