Questions: Should the Coverage Fit the Crime?
- Comment on the guidelines that have been created by KVUE. Do you feel that they are reasonable criteria for news reporting, or do you think they go too far? Are there guidelines that you would add?
- Why do local stations rely so much on crime reporting to boost ratings?
- Do you agree with the statement "Sensationalized reporting fuels fear and makes people feel powerless." Why or why not?
- By implementing these guidelines, KVUE journalists believe that they are delivering "responsible reporting" to their viewers. Critics argue that these guidelines are a form of "self-censorship", that people have a right to hear the news, even if it's violent.
From the article, find four comments in support of KVUE's philosophy, and four comments against their approach to crime reporting. Which do you agree with most?
- Review KVUE's decisions regarding the following stories: the triple murder in Elgin; the murder/suicide at the University of Texas; and the drive-by shooting in East Austin. What journalistic decisions had to be made in each case? Do you agree or disagree with the way in which they were handled?
- Adopting these guidelines has not been easy for the journalists involved. What are some of the ethical dilemmas that KVUE's journalists and producers have faced?
- Respond to the author's question: "Can thoughtful coverage of important local issues, crime included, compete with gripping images of maimed victims and distraught relatives?"
