What factors influence Australian media professionals’ level of agreement with guidelines for reporting suicide?

Abstract

This study examined whether Australian media professionals agree with guidelines for reporting suicide (Mindframe guidelines) and the factors that may influence their level of agreement. Participants completed an online survey to assess their level of agreement with Mindframe guidelines and to explore factors that might be associated with guideline agreement. These factors included demographic variables, suicide stigma, exposure to suicide, perceived strength of the evidence, personal use of guidelines, organisational compliance with guidelines and prior exposure to Mindframe. In total, 262 Australian media professionals from broadcast, print, digital and other media were recruited. Participants agreed with 15 of the 16 guideline statements, with linear regression showing that prior exposure to Mindframe was a significant predictor of agreement as was the perceived strength of the evidence, personal application of guidelines and stigma. Guidelines for reporting suicide should be enhanced by an active implementation strategy informed by knowledge and views of media professionals.