Winning back readers with constructive journalism

People are growing increasingly weary of the constant flow of news, yet they simultaneously desire more constructive, solution-oriented journalism. This observation comes from Prof. Colin Porlezza, Associate Professor at USI Faculty of Communication, Culture and Society and Director of the Institute of Media and Journalism (IMeG). He shared these insights in Corriere del Ticino, reflecting on a representative study conducted by Marketagen regarding news consumption in Switzerland.

According to Professor Porlezza, the results of the study "confirm what previous analyses have shown". As he explains, "studies at the University of Zurich reveal that almost 40% of Swiss people tend to stop watching the news. However, this often does not imply a complete disengagement from current events; instead, many adopt a more selective approach to the information they consume." The Director of IMeG emphasises that readers' negative emotions do not depend solely on the topics covered. "Some people may stop consuming news because they feel overwhelmed by constant reports of conflict, seeking to protect their mental health. However, the way news is presented can also provoke anger."

The problem, he adds, is accentuated by sensationalist headlines: "People acknowledge their attraction to sensationalist headlines, even though they understand that these headlines may not address significant issues and could be misleading. They recognise that such headlines do not reflect quality journalism, yet they still feel emotionally connected to this style of consuming news." Porlezza also highlights a crucial economic aspect: "Journalism in Switzerland fundamentally does not have quality issues. The real problem lies in reaching the public. Newspapers often feel pressured to choose more sensationalist headlines to survive economically."

Looking ahead, Porlezza calls for a rethinking of professional practices: "Constructive journalism does not mean offering only positive news. It means exposing problems, but also trying to find possible solutions to them, perhaps even involving users." In conclusion, the Director of IMeG reflects on media education: "I believe it is important to cultivate media literacy by offering media education starting in compulsory schooling."

The full article, edited by Andrea Stern, is available by clicking here. (Italian only)