What are news avoiders and what are their reasons?
Every day, we encounter news about natural disasters, attacks, and political decisions. However, not everyone opts to consume news articles, and this trend is on the rise. The reasons behind this phenomenon may vary.
Perhaps there is an abundance of negative news in the world currently, or people might simply be less interested. Two prevailing reasons for this declining interest in news consumption are a diminishing trust in the media and its perceived negative impact on individuals’ moods.
What are the different kind of news avoiders?
The group of news avoiders can be categorized into two distinct groups: those who completely abstain from consuming any news and those who selectively avoid specific news articles at times. Consequently, the motivations behind news avoidance can vary significantly. It might result from a deliberate decision, a consequence of being occupied with other matters, or simply a habitual choice.
- A conscious choice: This arises from a negative perception of news, often fueled by a lack of trust in the media or a feeling of disconnection from the content. Additionally, some individuals may choose to avoid news due to its potential negative impact on their emotional state.
- Busy with other things: People with diverse interests may choose to skip certain news topics as they prioritize other activities. This could be a result of limited time to consume news comprehensively or simply due to a lack of personal interest in specific subjects.
- Habitual behavior: Some individuals might refrain from following the news due to various factors, such as not fully comprehending the news content or lacking early exposure to news consumption habits in their upbringing.
Negative news tends to attract greater attention compared to positive news, potentially leading to a skewed perception for readers. Hence, it is understandable why some people deliberately avoid certain types of news due to this factor. However, the reasons for news avoidance aren’t solely attributed to a lack of social involvement in global affairs.
Indeed, some news avoiders might choose alternative methods to stay informed, such as podcasts, documentaries, discussions with others, or other softer news channels. Consequently, their decision to avoid traditional news outlets does not necessarily indicate disinterest or disengagement from current events.
Mental well-being
The primary reason cited for avoiding news consumption is its detrimental effect on mental well-being. The constant exposure to negative news can induce stress and lead individuals to reduce or completely halt their news intake. This impact is particularly significant for those prone to anxiety and worry in their daily lives.
When one starts their day and ends it by immersing themselves in various negative topics from the news, it can profoundly affect their mental state. This effect is amplified for anxious individuals. Furthermore, negative news can trigger concerns and worries, not just for oneself but also for strangers on the other side of the world or the future of their children.
The overwhelming sense of powerlessness in influencing global events can intensify anxiety and create a sense of hopelessness. The inability to relinquish this feeling of helplessness further exacerbates feelings of anxiety and despondency.
How do you avoid becoming a news avoider?
To avoid being engulfed by the cycle of negativity, a helpful approach is to actively seek out positive news. By consciously balancing negative information with positive updates, you can gain a more realistic perspective of global events.
Certain online news platforms offer dedicated pages featuring exclusively positive news items. Engaging with these sources can be beneficial. Additionally, interacting with optimistic individuals and discussing negative news stories together can also be uplifting. Sharing thoughts and insights with positive-minded people can help illuminate the world in a brighter light and foster a more hopeful outlook.
