What they found was an overwhelming lack of confidence. 100% of the people interviewed voiced distrust in traditional media, with 92% reporting that they felt the media manipulated information. Distrust in the media mostly stemmed from suspicions that the government was controlling the content of the news and from excessive portrayals of violence. 70% of the respondents reported that they use social media as an alternative source for more credible information. Despite many feeling that information on social media was monitored less, many also reported distrust of news on social platforms, reporting that rumors and unverified information are often posted online. Study participants preferred reporting that demonstrated objectivity, provoked critical thinking, and showed respect for victims of violence. Critically, they also preferred outlets which covered not just problems, but solutions.
This study argues that a healthy and trusting relationship between the media and the people they serve is imperative to building peace. Current perceptions of Mexican media are rather damaged, and understanding what might help repair these perceptions may help build a more peaceful society. While this study was limited to the case of Mexico, both producers and consumers of news around the world can take note: findings suggest that dropping sensationalism in favor of objective and rigorous reporting intended to spark conversations is key to producing media people can trust.
Meschoulam, M., de Benito, C., Blumenkron, C., Muhech, A., Naanous, T., Ramirez, A., & Quintanilla, S. (2017). Mass Media, Violence, and Peacebuilding: A Qualitative Study in Mexico. International Journal of Peace Studies, 22(1).
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