Robert Ferguson, as quoted in the Scott chapter of Tapsall & Varley, says that the way identity is constructed is influenced by "the recognition and confirmation of relative 'sameness', the negotiation of multiple and often contradictory positions on a range of issues, and from time to time, the external imposition of undesired or unacceptable norms". (132:2006)
When individuals are faced with challenges or tests, they are forced to make decisions.
As they consume the media, an individual will form and develop ideas about themselves, others and the world around them.
Scott argues that journalists must be aware of this responsibility.
Scott states that over the past thirty years, there has been "considerable growth in the consciousness of Australian journalists of the importance of representations pertaining to class, religion, age, sexuality, disability, gender, race, and ethnicity... these understandings of the world warrant treatment that is accurate, ethical and non-stereotypical".
And I agree.
Journalists play a vital role in the way people understand the world around them.
By relying on stereotypes, a journalist risks alienating their audience, and furthering an inaccurate, unfair image of their subject.
It only takes one word or expression to add a stereotypical inference to a news story.
With this in mind, Scott talks about the impact of 'the story of the story'.
That is, the context of the journalist should be taken into consideration when meaning is unpacked from a media report.
There are a number of media watchdogs in place to scrutinise the work of other journalists.
ABC television's Mediawatch is a notable program that helps keep journalists and media companies on their toes to encourage balanced, accurate and ethical news production.
As Scott notes, "journalism seeks to define consensus".
Although journalists may not see this as part of their role, or even if they do, may not actively aim to portray a particular message, the way in which stories are written, selected and edited legitimises or normalises particular values, ideas and attitudes in society.
Journalists have a great responsibility and should be aware of the impact they can have on their area of influence.
Scott says that "Balance is more than just equal space for different sides of the story".
His advice?
The journalist must write with empathy.
Every individual and their situation is different, and none should be trivialised, sensationalised or stereotyped.
3 comments:
Here here girl!
Finally someone on my wavelength!
I think your comment "Every individual and their situation is different, and none should be trivialised, sensationalised or stereotyped" sums up the point exactly. Journalists should take their role seriously and realise that typecasting, generalising or misleading reporting isnt on.
There is no excuse today. Journalists tell society about itself
I could not agree more that mediawatch is a revered program, keeping the journos honest. But does the program sometimes take on a self-righteous position on national media. After all ABC have 15 minutes of dirt to deliver on the media every monday night.
To clarify. I sometimes believe mediawatch draw a long bow to criticise the mainstream media?
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