Pressures on the Press

Abstract

The reporting of disasters or other traumatic, unusual events involving loss of life presents its own particular problems. This article focuses on press reporting of the tragedy which took place at Dunblane Primary School, Scotland, in 1996. Issues raised are considered primarily from the perspective of editors and journalists. Professional pressures on journalists working amidst disaster situations are immense. Consideration is given to the operation of the emergency press facilities; ethical concerns in respect of doorstepping the bereaved; editorial guidance and finally the personal costs of reporting tragedy. The article is based on interviews carried out in 1997 with English and Scottish journalists and editors. Other sources consulted include those involved in journalism training and PressWise, which acts with and on behalf of those who feel they have been treated badly by the media. All unattributed quotations are drawn from these interviews. Unless otherwise indicated journalists quoted are employed by Scottish-based newspapers.