Exploring the Ethical Implications of Misinformation During Public Health Crises in Keffi Local Government Area, Nasarawa State
- Project Research
- 1-5 Chapters
- Abstract : Available
- Table of Content: Available
- Reference Style:
- Recommended for :
- NGN 5000
Background of the Study
Misinformation during public health crises is a significant concern for both public health authorities and the media. In Keffi Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, misinformation has the potential to undermine efforts to manage public health issues, such as disease outbreaks or emergency responses. The rise of social media and digital platforms has exacerbated the spread of false information, particularly during times of crisis when fear and uncertainty are high (Chukwu & Hassan, 2024).
During the COVID-19 pandemic, for instance, Keffi witnessed the rapid spread of misleading health information that led to confusion among the public, resistance to health guidelines, and even public panic. In these circumstances, journalists, health authorities, and media outlets must navigate ethical challenges in managing and counteracting misinformation while ensuring the dissemination of accurate, science-based information (Jibril & Ibrahim, 2023).
This study will explore the ethical implications of misinformation in public health crises, focusing on the role of the media in preventing or spreading misinformation and the ethical responsibilities of journalists in reporting during such times. It will also examine the impact of misinformation on public behavior and trust in health authorities in Keffi.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The spread of misinformation during public health crises poses a serious ethical dilemma for journalists and media practitioners in Keffi. False information can jeopardize public health efforts, cause confusion, and lead to harmful behaviors. In a local context like Keffi, where access to accurate health information may be limited, the role of the media in combating misinformation is crucial. This study aims to investigate the ethical challenges faced by journalists in reporting public health issues and the responsibility of the media in ensuring the public receives accurate and reliable health information during crises.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
-
To explore the ethical implications of misinformation during public health crises in Keffi Local Government Area.
-
To examine the role of the media in countering misinformation and promoting accurate health information in Keffi.
-
To assess the impact of misinformation on public trust in health authorities during public health crises.
1.4 Research Questions
-
What are the ethical implications of misinformation during public health crises in Keffi?
-
How does the media contribute to or combat the spread of misinformation during public health crises in Keffi?
-
What impact does misinformation have on public trust in health authorities and their recommendations during crises?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
-
Misinformation during public health crises poses significant ethical challenges for journalists in Keffi.
-
The media plays a crucial role in either promoting or combating misinformation during public health crises in Keffi.
-
Misinformation during public health crises negatively affects public trust in health authorities in Keffi Local Government Area.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study is vital for understanding the role of media in public health crises and the ethical responsibilities of journalists in managing misinformation. By investigating the ethical implications of misinformation in Keffi, this research will contribute to the development of best practices for health communication and media ethics. The findings will help media practitioners, health authorities, and policymakers to better address misinformation in future health crises.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on the ethical implications of misinformation during public health crises in Keffi Local Government Area, Nasarawa State. Limitations include potential biases in media reporting and challenges in obtaining a comprehensive view of public perceptions due to the sensitivity of health-related topics.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
-
Misinformation: The dissemination of false or inaccurate information, whether intentionally or unintentionally, that can influence public understanding and behavior.
-
Public Health Crises: A situation in which there is a widespread health threat that demands urgent attention and action, such as an epidemic or pandemic.
-
Ethical Implications: The moral considerations and challenges faced by journalists in ensuring responsible and truthful reporting during public health crises.
Related Project Materials
The Role of Technology in Enhancing Accessibility for People with Disabilities at Events in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Borno State
Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Accessibility has become a crucial consideration in event planning, with...
KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE OF CARE OF THE ELDERLY PATIENTS AMONG HEALTH WORKERS IN UNIVERSITY OF CALABAR TEACHING HOSPITAL CALABAR, CROSS RIVER STATE, NIGERIA.
ABSTRACT
With the global trend towards an increasing aging population, there is a corresponding increas...
The Effect of Customer Relationship Management Upgrades on Enhancing Customer Loyalty in Banking: A Case Study of Sterling Bank
Background of the Study
Customer relationship management (CRM) is a cornerstone of modern banking, with customer loyalty be...
An examination of ATM performance monitoring systems on reducing service downtimes in banking: a case study of AB Microfinance Bank
Background of the Study
Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) are a critical component of modern banking infrastructure, providing customers w...
SMALL AND MEDIUM SCALE ENTERPRISES AND THEIR ROLE IN UNEMPLOYMENT REDUCTION
EXCERPT FROM THE STUDY
Unemployment is widely regarded as a manifestation of fundamental microeconomic disequilibrium. W...
The effect of nonverbal cues on pragmatic interpretation in Igbo community gatherings in Onitsha
Background of the Study
Nonverbal cues—such as facial expressions, gestures, and body language—are essential c...
An assessment of cultural beliefs affecting mental health therapy in Arochukwu Local Government, Abia State
Background of the study
Cultural beliefs play a critical role in shaping attitudes toward mental health a...
GROUND MAGNETIC AND GEOELECTRICAL PROSPECTING FOR GOLD MINERALISATION WITHIN TSOHO- GURUSU AREA OF MINNA, NIGER STATE, NIGERIA
ABSTRACT
Ground magnetic and geoelectrical resistivity methods were used to prospect for gold mineralisation within Tsoho-Gurusu area of...
IDEOLOGY AND SEDUCTIVE RHETORIC IN THE DISCOURSE OF THE ENDBADGOVERNANCE PROTEST
IDEOLOGY AND SEDUCTIVE RHETORIC IN THE DISCOURSE OF THE ENDBADGOVERNANCE PROTEST.
Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of t...
The Influence of Newspaper Coverage on Consumer Attitudes Towards Local Products in Gusau Local Government, Zamfara State
Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Consumer attitudes towards local products are a critical factor in the de...
