Abstract
This mixed-methods study used Q methodology to uncover two distinct perspectives among U.S. news consumers on their expectations of journalists. One expressed a traditional, neutral view of journalism. The other was more likely to accept journalistic voice and agency. The factors were similar to those uncovered in a previous study of journalists. This study revealed consensus items among news consumers, such as “a journalist’s first obligation is to the truth,” and areas of disagreement. Participants with a more traditional view were more likely to be politically conservative and older. We also found significant differences by trust and journalistic role conception.
Original language | English (US) |
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Journal | Journalism and Mass Communication Quarterly |
DOIs | |
State | Accepted/In press - 2024 |
Keywords
- activism
- journalism
- neutrality
- news consumers
- norms
- roles
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Communication