City Research Online

Abstract

This article examines the lived experiences of conflict reporters to unpick the pitfalls and perseverance in journalism practice in dangerous places. It uses the case of covering the Boko Haram conflict to unpack the risks journalists encounter in reporting on violent extremism. Drawing on individual interviews and focus groups with 34 journalists and newsroom observations, the study provides insights into the complexities of covering violent extremism, their consequences on journalists’ lives and on journalism production, and the coping mechanisms deployed to withstand them. Professional collaboration, avoidance of antagonism, social solidarity and remote reporting strategies were found to be the conflict reporters’ main modes of resistance and resilience.

Publication Type:	Article
Additional Information:	© Tasiu Abubakar, A., 2025. The definitive, peer reviewed and edited version of this article is to be published in Journal of African Media Studies
Publisher Keywords:	Conflict reporting, coping strategies, civil sphere theory, trauma journalism, terrorism, journalism safety, emotional injuries, Boko Haram
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HN Social history and conditions. Social problems. Social reform H Social Sciences > HV Social pathology. Social and public welfare P Language and Literature > PN Literature (General)
Departments:	School of Communication & Creativity School of Communication & Creativity > Department of Journalism
SWORD Depositor:	Symplectic Administrator

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