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Harassment of journalists in the United States

Patricia Cruz

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The study “Harassment’s Toll on Democracy: The Effects of Harassment Towards US Journalists” by Kaitlin C. Miller from University of Alabama was about the US journalists’ experiences of harassment in their work and its effect on their work and emotions. The study consisted of both a survey and interviews. More than 500 journalists were surveyed and 32 were interviewed for the study. 

It is known from previous studies on the matter that journalists are targets of various forms of harassment due to their critical role in society. This harassment has a two-fold effect: it can affect journalists as individuals and the work they produce. Verbal harassment from outsiders is linked to the desire to quit one’s job and to burnout.

Typically, when making sense of the harassment, the relation the victim has with the perpetrator has an effect on how it is perceived. Negative emotions tend to be suppressed more when there is no personal relationship. However, there are suggestions from other studies that due to the level of suppression required, the outsider harassment may even be more likely to cause burnout.

The quantitative survey was conducted after the interviews and was based on the findings of the interviews.. It was limited to local broadcast and print journalists due to their private funding – it was assumed that the type of funding may affect the experience – and due to the prevalence of these media in the United States. 20 interviewees worked in print and 12 in broadcast, with half identifying as men and half as women.

For the survey, the sample consisted of 52 television news markets in the US, which is one quarter of the total. This sample was representative of the print and broadcast journalists in the US. The journalists surveyed were found from the websites contact information section. A total of 3567 email addresses were collected, and the response rate being 14,3 %, 509 completed the survey.

There were three groups of the types of harassment that journalists face. First, incivility and disruptive harassment, second, sexual harassment, and third, personally attacking harassment. The survey used 16 measures to probe these. 

The harassment did affect the workplace routines. Specifically, younger and women journalists were exhibited changes in workplace behaviors when affected by sexual harassment and incivility harassment. The workplace behaviors surveyed included considering quitting the job or journalism altogether, or changing the angle of the story. 

It was found out that harassment did indeed influence the affect-driven behaviors and through that, the journalists’ judgement. Many journalists, 49%, were less active on social media due to the harassment they faced there, and 24% turned off messaging. 

As alluded, age was a strong predictor for changing behaviors in response to harassment. Nevertheless, overall job satisfaction for journalists remained quite high. An editor mentioned that safety takes precedence in the work, and an interviewee stressed the importance of having support from colleagues and the newsroom in harassment cases. 

Based on the results, the author suggests that newsroom supervisors should establish procedures for situations where journalists feel unsafe or when harassment has already occurred. The journalists should be empowered to know where to report such incidents and how to proceed. 

The research does contribute to Affective Events Theory. It shows that affective events can significantly impact the work one does, particularly when the event is seen as being unique to one’s work. Thus, scholars researching the matter should particularly seek to mitigate such “work hassles”.

It is also worrying that the total toll for journalists, even more so for women journalists and journalists of color, is so high. 50% of women journalists have avoided interviewing someone due to the danger of harassment, and 20% of men. It can no longer be ignored, as 25% of women and 24% of men consider leaving journalism completely due to it. Journalism educators and newsroom supervisors should take note and present measures.

The study “Harassment’s Toll on Democracy: The Effects of Harassment Towards US Journalists” by Kaitlin C. Miller is in Journalism Practice. (free abstract).

Picture: Pierced Thousand Times by Possessed Photography @possessedphotography

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Journalism

The benefits of practicing mindfulness and how to start

Alice Trout

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In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of everyday life. Between work, family, and other responsibilities, we often forget to take care of ourselves. This is where mindfulness comes in. Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment, without judgment. In this article, we will explore the benefits of practicing mindfulness and how to start.

Benefits of Practicing Mindfulness

  1. Reduces stress and anxiety

Mindfulness can help to reduce stress and anxiety levels. By focusing on the present moment, you can calm your mind and reduce racing thoughts.

  1. Improves mental clarity

Practicing mindfulness can improve mental clarity and focus. It can help to clear your mind of distractions and increase productivity.

  1. Enhances self-awareness

Mindfulness can increase self-awareness and help you to understand your thoughts and emotions better. By being present in the moment, you can learn to recognize your patterns of thinking and behavior.

  1. Improves relationships

Mindfulness can help to improve relationships by increasing empathy and compassion. By being present with others, you can develop a deeper understanding of their needs and feelings.

How to Start Practicing Mindfulness

  1. Set aside time

Set aside a specific time every day to practice mindfulness. It can be as little as 5-10 minutes per day to start.

  1. Find a quiet space

Find a quiet space where you won’t be disturbed. It could be a quiet corner of your home or a quiet park.

  1. Focus on your breath

Focus on your breath and the physical sensations of breathing. Notice the rise and fall of your chest and the sensation of air moving in and out of your body.

  1. Be present

Allow yourself to be present in the moment without judgment. Let your thoughts and emotions come and go without dwelling on them.

  1. Practice regularly

Make mindfulness a regular practice. It takes time to develop the habit, but the benefits are worth it.

In conclusion, practicing mindfulness can have numerous benefits for our mental and physical well-being. It’s a simple yet powerful practice that can be incorporated into our daily lives. By setting aside a few minutes each day to practice mindfulness, we can reduce stress and anxiety, improve mental clarity, and enhance our relationships. So why not give it a try? Your mind and body will thank you for it.

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Journalism

How to create a perfect morning routine for a productive day

Alice Trout

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Do you ever feel like your day has gotten away from you before it even starts? One way to combat this feeling is to create a perfect morning routine. Establishing a routine can help you start your day off on the right foot, and set the tone for a productive and successful day. Here are some tips on how to create a morning routine that works for you.

Determine Your Priorities

Before you start creating a morning routine, it’s important to determine what your priorities are. What are the things that you want to accomplish in the morning? Do you want to exercise, meditate, or have a healthy breakfast? Once you have a list of your priorities, you can start creating a routine that includes them.

Wake Up at the Same Time Every Day

Waking up at the same time every day can help regulate your body’s natural sleep cycle and make it easier to fall asleep at night. Try to wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This can help establish a consistent routine and make it easier to stick to.

Take Time for Yourself

Many people feel rushed and stressed in the morning, but taking some time for yourself can help alleviate this feeling. Whether it’s meditating, reading a book, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee, taking time for yourself can help you start your day feeling calm and centered.

Exercise

Exercise is a great way to start your day, as it can help increase your energy levels and improve your mood. Whether it’s a quick jog, yoga practice, or weightlifting session, try to include some form of exercise in your morning routine.

Eat a Healthy Breakfast

Breakfast is often called the most important meal of the day, and for good reason. Eating a healthy breakfast can help fuel your body and provide the energy you need to start your day. Try to include protein, whole grains, and fruit or vegetables in your breakfast.

Plan Your Day

Taking a few minutes to plan your day can help you stay focused and productive. Make a to-do list or set priorities for the day, and review your calendar to make sure you’re prepared for any meetings or appointments.

Stick to Your Routine

Once you’ve created a morning routine that works for you, try to stick to it as much as possible. Consistency is key, and sticking to your routine can help establish healthy habits and improve your overall productivity.

In conclusion, creating a perfect morning routine can help set the tone for a productive and successful day. By determining your priorities, waking up at the same time every day, taking time for yourself, exercising, eating a healthy breakfast, planning your day, and sticking to your routine, you can create a morning routine that works for you. Remember, it’s all about finding what works best for you and your lifestyle.

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Journalism

10 simple yet effective ways to reduce stress in your daily life

Alice Trout

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Stress is an inevitable part of our lives, but it can have a negative impact on our mental and physical health if left unchecked. Fortunately, there are several simple yet effective ways to reduce stress in our daily lives. In this article, we will explore 10 such methods that you can easily incorporate into your routine.

Exercise regularly

Physical activity is an excellent way to relieve stress. It helps to release endorphins, which are natural mood-boosters. You don’t have to engage in high-intensity workouts to reap the benefits. Even a brisk walk or light yoga can help reduce stress levels.

Get enough sleep

Lack of sleep can cause irritability, mood swings, and increase stress levels. Make sure you get at least 7-8 hours of sleep every night to feel well-rested and refreshed.

Practice deep breathing

Deep breathing techniques such as diaphragmatic breathing can help to calm your mind and body. Inhale deeply through your nose and exhale slowly through your mouth. Repeat this for a few minutes to feel relaxed.

Spend time in nature

Spending time in nature can have a calming effect on your mind and body. Take a walk in the park or go for a hike in the woods to feel rejuvenated.

Practice mindfulness meditation

Mindfulness meditation involves focusing on the present moment without judgment. It can help to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Set aside a few minutes every day to practice mindfulness meditation.

Listen to music

Music has a soothing effect on our minds. Listening to calming music can help to reduce stress levels. Create a playlist of your favorite relaxing tunes and listen to it when you feel stressed.

Practice yoga or tai chi

Yoga and tai chi are ancient practices that combine physical postures and breathing techniques. They can help to reduce stress levels and promote relaxation.

Connect with loved ones

Talking to friends and family members can help to reduce stress levels. It can provide a sense of comfort and support during challenging times.

Practice gratitude

Focusing on the positive aspects of life can help to reduce stress levels. Make a habit of practicing gratitude by writing down things you are thankful for every day.

Take breaks

Taking short breaks throughout the day can help to reduce stress levels. Go for a short walk, practice deep breathing or simply take a few moments to close your eyes and relax.

In conclusion, stress is a part of life, but it doesn’t have to take over. By incorporating these simple yet effective methods into your daily routine, you can reduce stress levels and improve your overall well-being. Remember, taking care of yourself should always be a top priority.

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