Through the Graphic Lens: The Effects of Graphic Images on News Consumers’ Reactions
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Journalism professionals and media scholars frequently debate whether audiences should be exposed to graphic or sanitized imagery in news coverage. Understanding how such visuals affect viewers is key to resolving this issue. In this paper, we investigate the impact of graphic imagery on news consumers’ reactions, and examine the moderating effects of prior exposure to violence, and the proximity of the event. In Study 1, Mexican and Dutch participants (N = 128) viewed either a graphic or sanitized news video about the 2019–2020 Chilean protests. In Study 2, Mexican participants (N = 375) read a news article about violence against migrants, varying in image content and event proximity. Results indicate that graphic imagery increased negative emotions and willingness to discuss and share the news but did not influence information seeking or social involvement. Prior exposure to violence and proximity did not moderate these effects. However, specific negative emotions mediated the relationship between graphicness and some outcomes. These findings provide journalists with an evidence-based foundation for making informed decisions about the use of graphic visuals. By understanding the impact of such imagery, they can more effectively evaluate which visuals to include in their reporting without overwhelming or alienating audiences.
Source: Journalism Practice
Institutions: Radboud University Nijmegen, Wageningen University & Research
Language: English
Subfield: Communication
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4415160018