Opinion: The relentless pursuit of negativity in news is not just tiresome; it actively harms our ability to solve problems. We must demand and support solutions-oriented news, fostering a more constructive and empowered society. Are we doomed to be constantly bombarded with problems, or can we shift the focus to how we fix them?
Key Takeaways
- Seek out news outlets that dedicate at least 20% of their coverage to solutions-oriented reporting, as this balanced approach provides a more complete picture of the world.
- Support journalism initiatives that train reporters in constructive journalism techniques, ensuring a higher quality of solutions-focused reporting.
- Actively share and promote solutions-oriented news stories on social media to amplify their reach and counteract the dominance of negative narratives.
The news has a problem. And I’m not talking about “fake news” or political bias, though those are certainly issues. I’m talking about the overwhelming negativity that dominates headlines. It’s a constant barrage of crises, conflicts, and catastrophes. While these things are undoubtedly happening and deserve coverage, the relentless focus on what’s wrong, without exploring potential solutions, leaves us feeling helpless, hopeless, and frankly, disengaged. That’s why we desperately need more and solutions-oriented news. Not fluff pieces or PR spin, but rigorous, evidence-based reporting on how people are tackling the challenges we face.
## The Problem with Problem-Focused News
The traditional news model often prioritizes sensationalism and conflict because, well, it sells. “If it bleeds, it leads,” as the old saying goes. A recent study by the Pew Research Center (though from back in 2022) [showed](https://www.pewresearch.org/journalism/2022/01/26/americans-news-sources-align-with-their-politics-but-across-the-political-spectrum-trust-varies-widely/) that negative news stories are more likely to be shared and engaged with on social media. This creates a perverse incentive for news outlets to focus on the negative, perpetuating a cycle of doom and gloom.
But what are the consequences of this negativity bias? For starters, it can lead to “news avoidance,” where people simply tune out because they feel overwhelmed and powerless. I had a client last year, a small business owner in Decatur, who told me she stopped watching the local news because it was “too depressing.” She felt like she was constantly being bombarded with reports of crime, traffic, and political infighting, with no sense of hope or progress. Is it any wonder people are disconnecting?
Furthermore, a constant diet of negative news can distort our perception of reality. We start to believe that the world is a much more dangerous and chaotic place than it actually is. This can lead to increased anxiety, fear, and distrust. It can also make us less likely to engage in civic life, believing that our efforts are futile in the face of overwhelming problems. Perhaps we need civil discourse to be saved from the news?
## The Power of Solutions-Oriented Reporting
Solutions-oriented news, also known as constructive journalism, takes a different approach. It doesn’t ignore the problems, but it also doesn’t stop there. It asks: What are people doing to address these problems? What’s working? What can we learn from these efforts? It’s about providing a more complete and nuanced picture of the world, one that includes both the challenges and the opportunities.
For example, instead of just reporting on the rise in homelessness in Atlanta, a solutions-oriented news story might explore the innovative approaches being used by local organizations like the United Way of Greater Atlanta to provide housing and support services. This could include reporting on the effectiveness of different housing models, the challenges of securing funding, and the impact of these programs on the lives of individuals experiencing homelessness. We need insight, not just information.
A well-executed solutions-oriented news story doesn’t shy away from the complexities of the issue. It acknowledges the limitations of the solutions being implemented and explores the potential unintended consequences. It’s not about presenting a rosy picture or promoting a particular agenda. It’s about providing readers with the information they need to make informed decisions and engage in constructive dialogue.
## Addressing the Criticisms
Of course, there are those who argue that solutions-oriented news is somehow “soft” or “biased.” They claim that it’s the job of journalists to expose problems, not to promote solutions. They worry that focusing on solutions will lead to a watering down of investigative reporting and a loss of objectivity.
But these criticisms are misguided. Solutions-oriented news is not about ignoring problems or sugarcoating reality. It’s about adding a crucial dimension to the news coverage. It’s about recognizing that simply reporting on problems is not enough. We also need to understand how people are trying to solve them.
Moreover, solutions-oriented news can actually enhance investigative reporting. By exploring the effectiveness of different solutions, journalists can hold policymakers and organizations accountable for their actions. They can expose programs that are failing to deliver on their promises and highlight those that are making a real difference.
We ran into this exact issue at my previous firm. We were advising a non-profit on their communications strategy, and they were hesitant to highlight their successes, fearing it would look like bragging. But we showed them how showcasing their impact, with data and specific examples, actually increased their credibility and attracted more funding. It’s not about self-promotion; it’s about demonstrating value. Maybe it’s time for Fulton News Needs Solutions.
## A Call to Action
So, what can we do to promote solutions-oriented news? Here’s what nobody tells you: it starts with us. We need to demand it from our news outlets. We need to support organizations that are training journalists in constructive reporting techniques. And we need to actively share and promote solutions-oriented news stories on social media.
Specifically, seek out news sources that dedicate a significant portion of their coverage to solutions. I’d suggest aiming for at least 20%. Look for outlets that are transparent about their methodology and that provide evidence to support their claims.
We need to reward journalists and news organizations that are committed to providing a more balanced and constructive view of the world. We need to show them that there is a demand for and solutions-oriented news. We can do this by subscribing to their publications, sharing their stories, and engaging in respectful dialogue about the issues they raise. If we don’t, we risk getting stuck in education’s echo chamber.
The Associated Press (AP) [offers](https://www.ap.org/) resources for journalists looking to incorporate solutions-based approaches. The Solutions Journalism Network (solutionsjournalism.org) is another excellent resource for finding examples of solutions-oriented news and learning more about the methodology.
Let’s shift the narrative from one of despair to one of hope and empowerment. Let’s demand and solutions-oriented news that inspires us to action and helps us build a better future.
The time for passive consumption is over. Actively seek out and share solutions-oriented news to cultivate a more informed, engaged, and hopeful society.
What exactly is solutions-oriented news?
It’s journalism that, while acknowledging problems, focuses on responses to those problems. It investigates and explains, in a critical and evidence-based way, how people are trying to make things better.
Is solutions-oriented news just “good news”?
No. It’s not about ignoring problems or presenting a Pollyannaish view of the world. It’s about rigorous reporting on responses to problems, including their limitations and unintended consequences.
How can I tell if a news story is truly solutions-oriented?
Look for stories that go beyond simply describing a problem and delve into potential solutions. They should provide evidence of the solution’s effectiveness (or lack thereof) and explore the challenges and trade-offs involved.
Does focusing on solutions mean ignoring important problems?
Absolutely not. Solutions-oriented reporting complements traditional problem-focused journalism. It provides a more complete picture by showing not only what’s wrong but also what’s being done to fix it.
Where can I find more examples of solutions-oriented news?
The Solutions Journalism Network website (solutionsjournalism.org) is a great resource for finding examples and learning more about the approach.
