Authors
• Ashiru Tukur Inuwa, PhD,,Department of Mass Communication Bayero University, Kano
• Rilwanu Umar Zauro,,Department of Mass Communication Bayero University, Kano
•
Abstract
Journalists in Nigeria encounter traumatic incidences while performing their duties. Specifically, those that cover some Northwestern states that experience insecurity and terror attacks by Banditry groups (Egwu, 2016). In view of this situation, this paper examined the extent to which Journalists operating in Katsina, Zamfara and Sokoto states face psychological trauma and investigate their knowledge on traumatic management strategies. The paper adapted Three sessions of Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and engaged a group of journalists in each of the three states. Guided by the Trauma theory and Social Support Theory, the study found that: Journalists operating in the Banditry affected states are at higher risk of trauma, due to exposure to conflict and tragic events; that Journalists in the affected states have no adequate knowledge of traumatic management strategies; and traumatic victims among Journalists are at risk of post traumatic disorders due to continuous experience of the causal factors and lack of support from the concerned authorities. Furthermore, Physical and digital attacks are the major factors responsible for psychological trauma among Journalists. In addition, psychological trauma cases are being under reported in the affected states. Based on these finding, the paper recommended that, Journalists covering Katsina, Zamfara and Sokoto states should strive to seek for knowledge on traumatic management strategies; traumatic victims among the Journalists should be giving adequate support to protect them from developing post trauma disorders; and that there is need for reporting cases of psychological trauma among Journalists covering the affected states.
Keywords
Journalists
Psychological trauma
Management strategies
Northwestern Nigeria
