Professional impact and job satisfaction among Chinese journalists

Abstract

Through a survey of 343 journalists from 5 metropolitan newspapers, this study explores the link between job satisfaction of journalists and their perceived work impact within the social context of China. The study shows that (a) Chinese journalists may not be happy about the current press system in China; however, this does not necessarily make them feel dissatisfied with their job; (b) In a controlled press system, journalists who find the system more acceptable tend to see the personal benefits offered by their job and to feel contented with their work environment; and (c) Journalists who find the existing press system acceptable are more likely to experience their personal impact on the news production process and perceive the significant influence of their newspaper. Such perceptions lead to greater satisfaction with their job.