Local TV news operates under a set of guiding principles, a classic rule of thumb that influences content selection, presentation, and overall coverage. Understanding this foundational concept is crucial for anyone seeking to comprehend the dynamics of local news broadcasting.
The “If It Bleeds, It Leads” Philosophy
The most enduring and widely recognized rule of thumb guiding local TV news is the saying, “If it bleeds, it leads.” This phrase encapsulates the tendency to prioritize stories involving crime, accidents, and other forms of violence, placing them at the beginning of newscasts and giving them prominent coverage.
The Rationale Behind the Rule
Several factors contribute to the prevalence of this approach:
- Ratings: Local TV news stations are businesses. Higher viewership leads to increased advertising revenue. Sensational stories tend to attract and hold viewers’ attention, boosting ratings.
- Simplicity: Crime and accident stories often have a clear narrative structure: an event, victims, and (hopefully) resolution. This simplicity makes them easy to package and present in a concise format.
- Visual Appeal: TV is a visual medium. Violent events often provide dramatic images and video footage, which are considered essential to attract and keep viewers engaged.
The Impact on News Coverage
The “if it bleeds, it leads” philosophy has a significant impact on the content of local TV news:
- Overemphasis on Crime: Crime stories often dominate newscasts, even in areas where crime rates are relatively low. This can create a perception of widespread danger, regardless of statistical realities.
- Sensationalism: To attract viewers, stories may be presented in a sensationalized manner, emphasizing the emotional impact of events and using dramatic language.
- Neglect of Other Issues: Important topics such as education, local government, and community development may receive less attention due to the focus on crime and accidents.
- Distorted Public Perception: Consistent exposure to negative news can create a distorted view of reality, leading to increased anxiety and fear.
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Beyond “If It Bleeds, It Leads”: Other Influential Factors
While the “if it bleeds, it leads” philosophy is a dominant force, several other factors also shape local TV news coverage:
Proximity
Local news emphasizes events occurring nearby. People are more interested in what’s happening in their community than in distant places. Stories about local residents, businesses, and institutions are prioritized.
Timeliness
News is inherently about what’s new. Local TV news focuses on recent events, often presenting information that has just occurred or is developing rapidly.
Prominence
Events involving well-known people or institutions often receive greater coverage. Stories about local politicians, celebrities, or major organizations are considered newsworthy due to their prominence.
Impact
Stories that affect a large number of people are prioritized. Changes to local laws, taxes, or public services are examples of high-impact events that warrant coverage.
Conflict
Disagreements and disputes are inherently newsworthy. Stories about political debates, labor strikes, or legal battles often attract attention.
Human Interest
Stories that evoke emotion or showcase unique individuals are also valued. These stories often focus on personal triumphs, struggles, or unusual circumstances.
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Conclusion
The “if it bleeds, it leads” philosophy remains a pervasive influence on local TV news, driving decisions about content selection and presentation. This principle, coupled with the need to attract viewership for revenue, can result in sensationalism and an overemphasis on crime. However, other factors, such as proximity, timeliness, prominence, impact, conflict, and human interest, also play a crucial role in shaping local TV news coverage. A comprehensive understanding of these guiding principles is essential for anyone seeking to critically analyze and engage with local news broadcasts.
