Trauma-Informed Journalism with Matthew Pearson

Beyond the headlines lies an often untold story about the unique and specific challenges
associated with reporting on traumatic events and the people touched by them, as well as the
collective emotional and physical toll this work takes on journalists.

Journalism schools must play a vital role in helping students understand and prepare for
the trauma they may be exposed to in the field; develop skills to report on trauma with
accuracy and compassion; and build resilience and self-care into their journalistic
practice.

In this workshop, Matthew Pearson, assistant professor of journalism at Carleton
University’s School of Journalism and Communication, offers journalism educators a road
map for bringing trauma awareness into the classroom and curriculum.

Instructors who view the videos below will gain a firm understanding of and language to
describe trauma in its various forms; strategies for interviewing trauma survivors and
their loved ones; approaches for telling stories involving trauma in a compassionate way;
and advice on how to handle graphic material such as still photos and video. The risks of
delving into stories that expose journalists to trauma, and strategies for effective
debriefing and self-care are also explored. Please note that during the course of the
videos you will be asked to listen to and reflect on stories involving trauma, loss, and
violence.