Effective trauma journalism requires ethical reporting guidelines and responsible behavior. In his QUILL (Jan/Feb) column, "Minimizing harm takes careful consideration," Kevin Smith cites the Society of Professional Journalists' (SPJ) Code of Ethics: "ethical journalists treat sources, subjects and colleagues as human beings deserving of respect." Smith directs journalists to seek permission with victims and loved ones before interviewing, to show respect and to empathize: "Mostly, remember that your coverage of any tragedy will remain a part of the victims' memories long after you move on to other stories."
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