Confidence in news among adults in Drenthe is lower than before. In addition, more than half of the residents sometimes consciously follow less news. This is evident from research by CMO/STAMM.
That agency conducted research into the news consumption of adults in Drenthe. More than four thousand residents from Drenthe and Groningen participated in the study by completing a questionnaire.
The most important insights are that almost all residents follow daily news via multiple channels, mainly via news websites, television, radio and newspapers. Participants in the study indicated that it is important for them to be well informed about national news.
It is remarkable that more than half of the residents sometimes consciously follow less news. In addition, trust in news is lower than before.
More than half of respondents think they see fake news at least once a week. Some people from Drenthe sometimes find the news too one-sided, they say they benefit more from facts instead of opinions.
Various points of interest emerged from conversations with residents. For example, articles must contain more background, depth and perspectives. “Residents indicate that news often contains too little context and that topics are sometimes treated too superficially.”
According to the research, more clarity should also be provided about how an article is created. “There is a need for more explanation, investigative journalism and insight into how information is created. They also think it is important that facts and opinions remain clearly separated,” says CMO/STAMM.
They think more perspectives could help with this. The participants indicated that they can then form a better-founded opinion and there is more room for nuance.
Another point for improvement is the method of reporting. “Residents indicate that news often focuses strongly on negative or sensational reporting. They miss attention for positive developments and initiatives, while in their opinion these contribute to a more balanced image of society. Switzerland is cited as an example, where the news ends with a positive message as standard.”
The news is also not equally accessible to everyone. “Difficult language and jargon can limit understanding. In addition, paywalls (of commercial newspapers, ed.) form a barrier, meaning that not everyone has access to quality journalism.”
Respondents are now again pointing abroad for a solution. In some countries, journalism is freely accessible and is financed through donations. A number of participants would also like to see this in the Netherlands.
Residents also see major differences between groups in how they consume and evaluate news. “Especially due to the amount of information and the role of fake news, it is becoming increasingly important to be able to critically assess what is reliable.”