A concurrent resolution calling on the media to engage in responsible and voluntary journalistic practices to deny mass public murderers the attention they desire and minimize any possible "media contagion effect" of irresponsible and sensationalistic reporting practices.
Impact
The resolution outlines specific recommendations for media practices, including avoiding the naming of suspects except when necessary for public safety. It encourages the prioritization of coverage for the victims of mass public murder, highlighting their stories to provide a more balanced narrative. By implementing these practices, the intention is to curtail the notoriety that perpetrators often seek through their actions, potentially influencing the behavior of those who might otherwise be motivated by infamy.
Summary
SCR15 is a concurrent resolution that calls upon the media to adopt responsible and voluntary journalistic practices to minimize the attention given to mass public murderers. The resolution aims to address concerns regarding the 'media contagion effect,' where sensationalist reporting of such violence can lead to increased occurrences of similar acts. It emphasizes the importance of shifting the focus from the perpetrators to the victims and acknowledges the potential psychological impacts of coverage on future mass public murders, as suggested by several studies cited in the resolution.
Contention
While SCR15 seeks to promote responsible media coverage, it may raise questions regarding freedom of the press and the potential for self-regulation in journalism. Critics may argue that mandating certain practices could infringe upon journalistic independence. Additionally, concerns about whether voluntary compliance from media outlets would be sufficient to mitigate the issues the resolution seeks to address could be debated among legislators and media professionals alike.
Same As
Calling on the media to engage in responsible and voluntary journalistic practices to deny mass public murderers the attention they desire and minimize any possible "media contagion effect" of irresponsible and sensationalistic reporting practices.