News values in journalism with examples
News values are the criteria used by journalists to determine what is newsworthy and what is not. These values help journalists prioritize and select the most important and relevant stories to share with the public. Here are some common news values in journalism, along with examples:
- Impact: Stories that have a significant impact on a large number of people are considered newsworthy.
Example: A devastating earthquake hits a major city, causing widespread destruction and loss of life.
- Uniqueness: Stories that are unusual, rare, or unprecedented are more likely to be considered newsworthy.
Example: A person sets a new world record for the longest duration without sleep.
- Proximity: Stories that occur close to home, either geographically or emotionally, are more likely to be considered newsworthy.
Example: A local school is affected by a severe budget cut, leading to concerns about the impact on students and teachers.
- Human interest: Stories that focus on human emotions, experiences, and relationships are often considered newsworthy.
Example: A heartwarming story about a stranger who helps a lost child find their parents.
- Conflict: Stories that involve conflict, controversy, or disagreement are often considered newsworthy.
Example: A heated debate between politicians over a proposed tax increase.
- Prominence: Stories that involve well-known or influential individuals are often considered newsworthy.
Example: A celebrity is arrested for a DUI.
- Timeliness: Stories that are current and relevant to current events are often considered newsworthy.
Example: A breaking news story about a natural disaster or a major accident.
- Novelty: Stories that are unusual, surprising, or unexpected are often considered newsworthy.
Example: A new species of animal is discovered in a remote jungle.
- Relevance: Stories that are relevant to the audience's interests or concerns are often considered newsworthy.
Example: A story about a new medical breakthrough that could benefit people with a specific disease.
- Sensationalism: Stories that are shocking, dramatic, or attention-grabbing are often considered newsworthy.
Example: A dramatic rescue of a person from a burning building.
- Authority: Stories that involve credible sources or experts are often considered newsworthy.
Example: A study published in a reputable scientific journal reveals a new finding about a specific health issue.
- Exclusivity: Stories that are exclusive or have not been reported by other media outlets are often considered newsworthy.
Example: A local newspaper breaks a story about a major company's financial troubles before other media outlets report on it.
These news values are not mutually exclusive, and many stories may fit into multiple categories. Journalists use these values to help them decide what stories to pursue and how to prioritize their reporting.