Types of Bias in the News

Types of Bias in the News

Types of Bias in the News

What is bias?

Unfair influence of a story's content, whether it's through what is included or omitted, how it's presented, or the way it is labeled

​Omission

• unfair influence of a story's content, whether it's through what's included or omitted, how it's presented, or the way it's labeled

• important facts or perspectives are purposefully left out, which can skew the audience's understanding of the topic

• seek out additional sources to gain a more comprehensive view of the situation

​Source Selection

• happens when news outlets rely on specific sources that may not provide a balanced or accurate viewpoint

• If a news story heavily depends on one particular perspective without including alternative viewpoints, it can lead to a skewed portrayal of the issue

• consider the credibility and diversity of sources used in a story

Placement

• refers to the positioning of a news story within a publication or broadcast

• the amount of coverage given to a story can also impact how significant it seems to the audience

• analyze where and how news stories are presented to understand the potential influence of placement bias

Labeling

• the use of language that can sway the audience's opinion about a topic or individual.

• words chosen to describe an event, person, or group can carry positive or negative connotations, shaping the audience's perception

• Paying attention to the language used in news reports can help us identify any potential bias introduced through labeling and evaluate information more thoughtfully

Multiple Choice

Bias by omission occurs when certain information is __ of a news story.

• emphasized

• exaggerated

• left out

• included

Multiple Choice

Bias in source selection happens when news outlets rely on specific sources that may not provide a __ viewpoint.

• biased

• balanced

• controversial

• sensational

Multiple Choice

Placement bias refers to the positioning of a news story within a publication or broadcast, which can influence the audience's _.

• understanding

• skepticism

• indifference

• humor

Multiple Choice

Bias through labeling involves the use of language that can sway the audience's _ about a topic or individual.

• understanding

• opinion

• emotion

• memory

Multiple Choice

As responsible consumers of the news, it's important to be aware of different types of bias and actively engage in __ when consuming information.

• skepticism

• acceptance

• ignorance

• avoidance