Conflict

Definition

Conflict refers to a struggle or clash between opposing forces, ideas, or interests that creates tension and drives narrative. In journalism, it often serves as a central element that captures audience attention and illustrates broader societal issues, while in feature writing, conflict can enrich storytelling by developing characters and plots through their challenges and struggles.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In journalism, conflict is a key news value because it indicates significant issues affecting society and can lead to investigative reporting.
2. Conflict can manifest in various forms, including interpersonal disputes, social struggles, or political disagreements, making it versatile for storytelling.
3. Feature writing utilizes conflict to create depth in characters and plots, helping readers connect emotionally with the story.
4. A well-crafted conflict can drive the narrative forward, ensuring that the audience remains engaged until a resolution is reached.
5. The portrayal of conflict in journalism must remain balanced and objective, even as it highlights different perspectives and interests involved.

Review Questions

• How does conflict serve as a key element in engaging readers within journalistic narratives?
  • Conflict captivates readers by presenting tension and opposing viewpoints that highlight significant societal issues. It invites readers to invest emotionally in the outcome and understand the complexities behind news stories. By showcasing conflicts such as social injustices or political debates, journalists can illuminate critical topics that resonate with their audience.
• Discuss the importance of conflict in feature writing and how it enhances character development.
  • Conflict is crucial in feature writing as it reveals the challenges that characters face, allowing for deeper exploration of their motivations and growth. Through obstacles and struggles, readers gain insight into characters' personalities and values. This dynamic not only keeps the story compelling but also helps convey universal themes that resonate with audiences on an emotional level.
• Evaluate how conflict can impact the perception of news events and the responsibilities of journalists in presenting it.
  • Conflict can significantly shape public perception of news events by framing issues in a particular light, potentially influencing opinions and actions. Journalists bear the responsibility of presenting conflicts fairly and accurately to avoid sensationalism or bias. By providing context and multiple viewpoints, they help audiences understand the complexities involved while fostering informed discussions on important matters.

Related terms

Tension: A feeling of suspense or anxiety created by unresolved conflict, often leading to heightened interest in a story.

Resolution: The outcome of a conflict where tensions are resolved, which can provide closure to a narrative or journalistic piece.

Antagonist: A character or force in opposition to the protagonist, often embodying the source of conflict in a story.