ABSTRACT
This chapter considers an issue that, despite only recently having gained traction in newsroom conversations, has had a growing impact on journalists for more than a decade. It defines what vicarious trauma is and how those covering trauma remotely or second-hand can be exposed to it. The chapter does this by giving examples of the circumstances where journalists are at risk – such as viewing violent online imagery, fact-checking or interviewing survivors of trauma. It shares the history of studies into vicarious trauma and details specific steps managers and journalists can take to minimise the risk. It also features insights from experts in the field, as well as journalists, managers and others exposed to secondary trauma.
