Need for guidelines for the media in covering terrorism . Aleem M A. BMJ 2016;354:i4869

BMJ

Editorials

Mental illness and terrorism

BMJ 2016; 354 doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmj.i4869 (Published 13 September 2016)

Cite this as: BMJ 2016;354:i4869

Rapid response

Need for guidelines for the media in covering terrorism

Nowadays media reports about terrorist activities and incidents of terrorism are of great concern. Over-reporting and over-coverage may result in adverse effects and further incidences.

This type of media attitude may interfere with ongoing investigations and may help the terrorists to escape.

So definitely certain guidelines are important for the media in covering, reporting and telecasting incidences of terrorism.

All the media all over the world should always adhere to these guidlines for safe, fearless day to day living.

Moreover terrorism is not a mental illness and there is no excuse or reconsideration for any terrorist activities based on this.

Competing interests: No competing interests

16 September 2016

M A Aleem

Neurologist

ABC Hospital

Annamalainagar Trichy 620018 Tamilnadu India

@drmaaleem