This course, Responsible Reporting on Suicide for Journalists, is designed for journalists and students interested in understanding how media coverage can influence suicide rates and how to use this influence for public health improvement. Research shows that certain ways of reporting suicide can lead to more suicides, while responsible reporting can encourage help-seeking behavior.
The World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recognize responsible suicide reporting as crucial for prevention. This course equips journalists with practical tools to promote responsible reporting and contribute positively to public health outcomes.
Course Module
This course has three modules. It’s called “Responsible Reporting on Suicide for Journalists” and is for journalists and students interested in how media coverage affects suicide trends and public health. Some reporting methods can increase subsequent suicides, while responsible reporting can encourage help-seeking. Organizations like the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention emphasize responsible reporting for prevention. The course gives journalists practical tools for responsible reporting and positive public health impact.
Course Outline
- Understanding Suicide as a Global Public Health Issue
- The Impact of Media Reports on Suicide Trends
- Implementing Suicide Reporting Guidelines in Practice
AFSP’s Top 10 Tips for Reporting on Suicide emphasize language sensitivity: Avoid terms like “successful,” “unsuccessful,” or “failed attempt,” and refrain from using “committed.” Instead, opt for phrases like “attempted suicide,” “made an attempt,” “died by suicide,” or “took his/her life.
Journalists commonly grapple with routine decisions regarding safeguarding confidentiality versus divulging vital information. This scenario is prevalent, especially when interviewing sources who reveal crimes to the interviewer under the pledge of confidentiality.