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Working with the Media After Traumatic Events: Practical TipsELSPETH CAMERON RITCHIE, MD, MPH
202-673-1939
Outline1. A Psychiatric Perspective
◦ Elspeth Cameron Ritchie2. The Police Officer and the Media
◦ Ken Edwards3. What Journalists Can Do
◦ Kevin Hogan4. Family Member Perspective
◦ Louise Pyers
Compounding the Trauma◦ If it bleeds it leads◦ Re-traumatization of family members
Tragedies & Journalists•Dart Center for Journalism and Trauma•A guide for more effective coverage
•Consider•The victims•The community•The journalists
Tips for Interviewing Victims Writing about Victims Covering Traumatic Events in the Community Taking care of Yourself Photojournalists Managing others who cover traumatic events
Tips For example
◦ When reporting on the deceased• Learn names•Tell stories•Be accurate
Mass Shootings• Way too familiar scenario now•Sensitivity needed on all parts
When the shooter is mentally ill•“Responding to a High-Profile Tragic Incident Involving a Person with a Serious Mental Illness”•A Tool kit for State Mental Health Commissions
•Reinforce anti-stigma messages◦ Mentally ill more likely to be victims than aggressors
•Acknowledge problems
Risk Communication•Briefing and listening
◦ Two way street
•Frequent communication◦ Rumor control
•IntangiblesoBiological and chemical hazards
oOngoing crises
A Note on Videotapes Can be very disturbing
◦ Even if not “graphic”
http://ilpvideo.com/video/NDgwMjQ/navy-yard-shooting-video-footage-released-by-fbi
Questions and Discussion
The police and the media
What journalists can do
The family perspective
