The Ethical Dilemmas in Reporting Public Health Emergencies in Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State
- Project Research
- 1-5 Chapters
- Abstract : Available
- Table of Content: Available
- Reference Style:
- Recommended for :
- NGN 5000
Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
The reporting of public health emergencies, such as disease outbreaks or natural disasters, requires journalists to navigate complex ethical dilemmas. In Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State, public health crises pose unique challenges for media practitioners, including balancing the need for timely information with the risk of causing panic, sensationalism, or stigma (Ibrahim & Yusuf, 2024). Ethical journalism in such contexts involves ensuring accuracy, maintaining confidentiality, and providing balanced coverage that informs and empowers the public (Ahmed, 2023). However, resource constraints, inadequate training, and external pressures often compromise journalistic integrity during health crises. This study explores the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists in Gombe when reporting on public health emergencies, emphasizing the need for ethical frameworks and professional support to enhance the quality and impact of their reporting.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Public health emergencies demand accurate and responsible reporting to inform the public and guide responses. However, in Gombe, journalists often grapple with ethical challenges such as verifying information under tight deadlines, respecting patient privacy, and avoiding sensationalism (Garba & Musa, 2024). These challenges are exacerbated by limited access to reliable data and pressure from authorities or stakeholders. The lack of clear ethical guidelines for reporting on health emergencies further complicates the situation, leading to potential harm to public trust and health outcomes. This study seeks to address this problem by examining the ethical dilemmas in reporting public health emergencies in Gombe and offering strategies for improvement.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
-
To analyze the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists in reporting public health emergencies in Gombe.
-
To evaluate the impact of these dilemmas on the quality of health reporting.
-
To propose strategies for enhancing ethical journalism during public health crises.
1.4 Research Questions
-
What ethical dilemmas do journalists face in reporting public health emergencies in Gombe?
-
How do these dilemmas affect the quality of health reporting?
-
What strategies can improve ethical standards in health journalism during emergencies?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
-
Journalists face significant ethical dilemmas in reporting public health emergencies in Gombe.
-
These dilemmas negatively impact the quality of health reporting.
-
Implementing ethical frameworks and training will improve public health reporting.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it addresses the critical role of ethical journalism in managing public health emergencies. By focusing on Gombe, the research provides valuable insights into the challenges journalists face and the implications for public awareness and response. The findings will benefit journalists, media organizations, and public health officials by offering recommendations for ethical and effective reporting during health crises.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study is limited to the ethical dilemmas in reporting public health emergencies in Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State. It does not explore other aspects of health communication or extend to other regions.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
-
Public Health Emergency: Situations requiring immediate attention to prevent or mitigate significant health risks to a population.
-
Ethical Journalism: The practice of reporting that adheres to principles of fairness, accuracy, and social responsibility.
-
Sensationalism: The use of exaggerated or dramatic language to attract attention or provoke emotional responses.
Related Project Materials
An Appraisal of the Impact of Strategic Alliances on Business Competitiveness in Nigeria
Background of the Study
Strategic alliances—ranging from joint ventures and partnerships to informal collaborations&m...
The effect of digital technology on enhancing productivity in Nigeria’s service sector: Evidence from Abuja (2010–2020)
Background of the Study :
Digital technology has rapidly transformed service industries worldwide by improving efficiency, reducing trans...
The Impact of Interest Rate Changes on Foreign Exchange Reserves in Nigeria
Background of the Study
Foreign exchange reserves serve as a critical safeguard against external shocks, stabilizing the n...
DIFFICULT TEACHING TOPICS IN BASIC SCIENCE IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN NIGERIA
Abstract
This study is on the an analysis of difficult instruction topics in Basic Science at the junior...
EVALUATION OF THE PROSPECT OF DEVELOPING NEW ASSEMBLIES AND ITS IMPLICATION FOR THE GROWTH OF THE APOSTOLIC CHURCH NIGERIA TACN, SANNGO-BADAN
Background of the study
The growth of the Christian church in Nigeria has been significant over the pas...
The impact of clear interest rate policy communication on influencing depositor behavior in banking: a case study of Fortis Microfinance Bank
Background of the Study
Clear and transparent communication regarding interest rate policies is critical for building depositor confidenc...
The Role of Industrial Energy Audits in Promoting Sustainability in Nigerian Manufacturing Companies
Background of the Study
The manufacturing sector is a major consumer of energy worldwide, and in Nigeria, inefficient energ...
THE ROLE OF FIDUCIARY ACCOUNTANTS IN LITIGATION SUPPORT
THE ROLE OF FIDUCIARY ACCOUNTANTS IN LITIGATION SUPPORT
Abstract: Fiduciary accountants play a crucial role in litigation support, provid...
The Impact of Ethical Leadership on Employee Performance in the Telecommunications Industry in Bauchi State
Background of the Study
Ethical leadership is a critical factor in shaping organizational culture, fostering trust, and...
The Impact of Urbanization on Nigerian Morphology: A Comparative Study of Traditional and Modern Lexicons
Background of the Study
Urbanization has had a profound effect on language evolution in Nigeria, influencing morphological...
