6.4 Editing and fact-checking sensitive content

Editing and fact-checking sensitive content in trauma journalism is crucial for maintaining accuracy and minimizing harm. Journalists must verify all claims, consult multiple sources, and pay attention to potentially triggering details. Proper documentation of the fact-checking process is essential for transparency and credibility.

Editors play a vital role in identifying and mitigating trauma triggers. They must be knowledgeable about common triggers, use responsible language, and consider content placement carefully. Collaborating with trauma experts and establishing clear organizational guidelines are key to ensuring ethical and sensitive coverage of traumatic events.

Fact-checking for Trauma Stories

Verifying Claims and Minimizing Harm

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• Fact-checking in trauma journalism involves verifying all claims, statistics, quotes, and details related to the traumatic event or topic to maintain credibility and minimize potential harm or re-traumatization
• Journalists should consult multiple reliable sources, such as official reports, eyewitness accounts, and expert opinions, to corroborate information and ensure accuracy
• Fact-checkers should pay close attention to details that may be particularly sensitive or triggering for survivors, such as descriptions of violence or abuse, and ensure they are accurately portrayed without sensationalism
• The fact-checking process should involve cross-referencing information with reputable databases, public records, and other verified sources to identify and correct any inconsistencies or errors

Documenting the Fact-checking Process

• Journalists should maintain detailed records of their fact-checking process, including sources consulted and verification methods used, to demonstrate due diligence and transparency
  • This documentation can serve as evidence of the journalist's commitment to accuracy and responsible reporting
  • Detailed records can also help defend against potential legal challenges or accusations of negligence or bias
• Fact-checking documentation should be organized and easily accessible for review by editors, legal teams, or other relevant parties
• Journalists should be prepared to explain their fact-checking process and reasoning behind editorial decisions to stakeholders, such as editors, sources, or the public

Trigger Identification and Mitigation

Recognizing and Minimizing Trauma Triggers

• Editors should be well-versed in common trauma triggers, such as graphic descriptions of violence, sexual assault, or abuse, and work to minimize their inclusion or impact on the audience
  • Examples of trauma triggers include vivid descriptions of physical injuries, accounts of sexual violence, or images of destruction or death
• Sensitivity readers or trauma experts should be consulted during the editing process to identify potentially triggering content and suggest alternatives or content warnings
• Editors should consider the potential impact of images, videos, or audio recordings on survivors and ensure they are used judiciously and with appropriate context and warnings
  • For example, blurring or obscuring graphic images, providing content warnings, or linking to support resources

Responsible Language and Content Placement

• The editing process should involve a thorough review of language and terminology used to describe traumatic events or experiences, ensuring they are accurate, respectful, and non-stigmatizing
  • Avoid sensationalistic or victim-blaming language (senseless tragedy, she was asking for it)
  • Use people-first language that emphasizes individuality and humanity (person with PTSD vs. PTSD sufferer)
• Editors should consider the placement and prominence of potentially triggering content within the story, and work to provide appropriate context and support resources for readers
  • Place trigger warnings at the beginning of articles or segments containing sensitive content
  • Include links to mental health resources, hotlines, or support organizations within the story or in a prominent sidebar

Collaboration with Trauma Experts

Seeking Input and Guidance

• Journalists should seek input from mental health professionals, trauma-informed advocates, or other experts to ensure accurate and responsible coverage of trauma-related topics
  • Consult with psychologists, social workers, or counselors who specialize in trauma and PTSD
  • Engage with victim advocates or support organizations focused on specific types of trauma (domestic violence, sexual assault, combat-related PTSD)
• Trauma experts can provide valuable insights into the psychological impact of trauma, common challenges faced by survivors, and best practices for minimizing potential harm or re-traumatization
• Collaboration with experts can help journalists navigate ethical considerations, such as protecting the privacy and safety of sources, and ensuring informed consent

Ongoing Communication and Collaboration

• Experts can review content for accuracy and sensitivity, and provide feedback on language, framing, and potential triggers or areas of concern
  • Share drafts or segments with trauma experts for review and input before publication
  • Incorporate expert feedback into the editing and revision process
• Journalists should maintain open lines of communication with trauma experts throughout the reporting and editing process, and be willing to make changes based on their input and expertise
  • Establish regular check-ins or consultations with trauma experts to discuss ongoing coverage or emerging issues
  • Foster long-term relationships with trauma experts to build trust and ensure consistent, responsible reporting on trauma-related topics

Guidelines for Trauma Journalism

Establishing Organizational Standards

• News organizations should establish clear and comprehensive guidelines for editing and fact-checking practices in trauma journalism, based on industry best practices and input from trauma experts
• Guidelines should cover topics such as verifying sources, handling sensitive information, minimizing potential harm or re-traumatization, and providing appropriate context and support resources
• Fact-checking guidelines should outline specific procedures for verifying claims related to traumatic events, such as consulting official reports, eyewitness accounts, and expert opinions
  • Require multiple, independent sources for all key facts and claims
  • Establish criteria for evaluating the credibility and reliability of sources

Ongoing Training and Support

• Editing guidelines should address language and terminology, the use of potentially triggering content, and considerations for protecting the privacy and safety of sources
  • Provide examples of appropriate and inappropriate language or framing
  • Outline procedures for obtaining informed consent and protecting source confidentiality
• Guidelines should be regularly reviewed and updated based on new research, evolving best practices, and feedback from journalists, experts, and the communities impacted by trauma coverage
• All journalists and editors should receive regular training on the organization's trauma journalism guidelines, as well as ongoing support and resources for implementing them in their work
  • Offer workshops or seminars on trauma-informed reporting techniques
  • Provide access to mental health resources and support for journalists covering traumatic events
  • Encourage open dialogue and peer support among journalists to address the challenges and emotional impact of trauma journalism