In 2019, Wendy Dean, Simon Talbot, and Austin Dean asserted that clinicians were leaving medicine due to ‘burnout’, but identified a deeper issue: ‘moral injury’ stemming from the gap between their values and the realities of the healthcare system. This disconnect resulted not only in dissatisfaction but also in an alarming exodus from the profession. They highlighted the need for reform to align the ethics of healthcare with the practice, emphasizing that patient care should remain paramount.
We now face a parallel situation in journalism, where the gap between our stated values and actual practices threatens to cause significant ‘moral injury’ among journalists. The profession is at a crossroads, as many journalists are disillusioned with the increasing focus on profit, biased narratives, and their inability to effectively serve communities requiring truthful reporting. This misalignment leads to a situation where journalists may choose to vacate the field rather than compromise their integrity.
The values of journalism are built on the principles of providing essential and reliable services that uphold truth and benefit the community, particularly those who are marginalized. However, behavior within the industry reflects a troubling trend, focusing excessively on revenue and less on those impacted by the narratives they share. Accessibility issues and the prevalence of complex language further alienate lay audiences, limiting the journalistic impact and leading to systemic disengagement.
To address impending moral injury among journalists, we must realign our actions with our foundational values. This requires a thorough examination of our reporting methods, the accessibility of our platforms, and how we engage with communities. By striving towards being a trusted resource that meaningfully improves lives, we can revitalize journalism and mitigate the risks of burnout and resignation. Engaging and convening effectively with our audiences is vital to this transformation.
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