Permission

Definition

In the context of interviewing, permission refers to the consent granted by an interviewee for the interviewer to conduct the interview, use their responses, and possibly publish their statements. This concept is essential for establishing trust, ensuring transparency, and respecting the rights of individuals being interviewed, especially in journalistic settings where ethical standards demand that interviewees have control over their own narratives.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Permission is not just a formality; it is a crucial step in building a respectful relationship between the interviewer and interviewee.
2. Interviewers should clearly communicate what they intend to do with the information collected to obtain informed permission.
3. Failing to obtain proper permission can lead to legal issues and damage to reputation for journalists and media organizations.
4. Permission can be verbal or written, but written consent is often preferred in formal or sensitive interviews.
5. Respecting permission fosters trust and encourages open communication, leading to more insightful and genuine interviews.

Review Questions

• Why is obtaining permission critical in establishing trust between an interviewer and interviewee?
  • Obtaining permission is essential because it shows respect for the interviewee's autonomy and their right to control how their words are used. When interviewees feel that they have granted consent freely, it builds a sense of trust which encourages openness and honesty during the interview. This trust can result in deeper insights and more authentic responses, enhancing the quality of the information gathered.
• How do ethical standards shape the process of obtaining permission in journalistic interviews?
  • Ethical standards provide a framework that guides journalists on how to interact with interview subjects fairly and respectfully. These standards emphasize the necessity of obtaining informed consent from interviewees before conducting interviews. By adhering to these guidelines, journalists not only protect the rights of individuals but also maintain credibility and integrity in their reporting, as ethical practices promote accountability in the gathering and dissemination of information.
• Evaluate the implications of not obtaining proper permission from an interviewee during a journalistic interview.
  • Failing to obtain proper permission can have serious consequences, both legally and ethically. Without explicit consent, an interviewee may feel violated or misrepresented if their statements are published without their approval. This breach can lead to legal actions against journalists or media organizations for defamation or invasion of privacy. Additionally, it can harm public trust in journalism as audiences may view such practices as manipulative or unethical, ultimately undermining the credibility of the media as a whole.

Related terms

Informed Consent: A process by which an interviewee is fully informed about the nature of the interview, how their information will be used, and gives explicit consent before proceeding.

Confidentiality: The ethical obligation of an interviewer to protect the privacy of the interviewee by not disclosing their identity or personal information without permission.

Ethical Standards: Guidelines that govern the conduct of journalists and interviewers, ensuring fairness, accuracy, and respect for the interviewee's rights.