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How social media linked to journalism 

Published : Saturday, 22 March, 2025 at 12:00 AM  Count : 433
ATIFA ANJUMAN
Social media has fundamentally reshaped the way journalists operate, from news gathering and verification to audience engagement and self-promotion. Platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok have become essential tools, offering real-time access to breaking news, sources, and public opinion. However, while social media enhances efficiency and connectivity, it also brings challenges, including misinformation, audience polarization, ethical dilemmas, and concerns over journalistic credibility.

The 21st century has witnessed a dramatic transformation in journalism, largely driven by digital technology. Traditional media outlets-print newspapers, radio, and television-have had to adapt to the digital age, where immediacy and interactivity dominate. The rise of social media platforms has accelerated this shift, forcing journalists to rethink their methods.Early Adoption (Mid-2000s-Early 2010s) - Journalists initially used platforms like Twitter and Facebook to share articles and interact with audiences. These tools were seen as secondary to traditional reporting methods.

Journalists today are not just reporters; they are also personal brands. Social media has enabled them to build followings, establish authority, and even generate independent revenue streams.Journalists can curate news feeds tailored to their audiences, offering analysis beyond standard reporting.Some journalists leverage platforms like Substack or Patreon, moving away from traditional media institutions.Increased visibility comes with risks-journalists face harassment, doxxing, and online abuse, particularly when covering sensitive topics.While social media provides opportunities, it also presents ethical dilemmas that journalists must navigate carefully.Journalists must balance professional neutrality with personal expression. A single tweet can compromise perceived impartiality.The pressure to generate engagement can lead to misleading headlines or sensationalized reporting.Journalists often access personal data shared on social media, raising ethical questions about what should or shouldn't be reported.

While social media offers benefits, its darker aspects cannot be ignored.False information spreads rapidly, often outpacing corrections. Governments, political groups, and malicious actors exploit social media to manipulate public opinion.

AI-generated videos can distort reality, making it difficult to distinguish truth from fiction.Automated accounts amplify false narratives, influencing public discourse.The 24/7 nature of social media contributes to burnout, anxiety, and stress among journalists. Constant exposure to online harassment and traumatic content can take a toll on mental well-being.Journalists, especially women and minorities, face online abuse, threats, and coordinated harassment campaigns.The pressure to stay updated leads to compulsive news consumption, affecting mental health.

As social media becomes the primary news source for many, traditional journalism struggles to compete. Advertising revenue has shifted to tech giants, leading to layoffs and downsizing in newsrooms.Misinformation and biased reporting have contributed to declining trust in mainstream media.Social media companies control what news gets visibility, often prioritizing engagement over journalistic value.As technology advances, the role of social media in journalism will continue to evolve. Artificial intelligence will assist in content creation, verification, and audience analysis.Block chain-based social media networks could reduce misinformation by ensuring content authenticity.Governments and platforms may introduce stricter regulations to combat misinformation while balancing free speech concerns.

Social media has undeniably transformed journalism, offering new tools for reporting, engagement, and distribution. However, it also presents significant challenges, from misinformation to ethical dilemmas and mental health concerns. As journalists continue to integrate social media into their daily practices, maintaining credibility, accuracy, and ethical standards remains paramount.The future of journalism will likely depend on how well journalists and media organizations navigate these complexities while embracing the opportunities that social media provides.

The writer is a broadcast journalist and news presenter, Independent Television



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