Overcoming the impact of partisan news on mental health

Managing relationships despite our different beliefs.

Like it or not, partisan news media represent a powerful force in society. Partisan news media not only shape the current political arena, but also have enormous ramifications for the psychological, emotional, and social realms of our lives.

Starting in the mid-1990s, partisan news television channels rapidly developed and became more popular than traditional mainstream network news. Often hosted by rock star-like news anchors who cater to audiences of particular political and ideological belief systems and can garner cult-like followings, partisan news outlets often It has become an abbreviation used to evaluate personality.

The jury selection process in former President Trump’s sensational hush-money trial is emblematic of this trend. When vetting potential jurors, attorneys on both sides paid close attention to questions about potential jurors’ media consumption.

The growing social impact of partisan news media

The proliferation of news organizations has given us more options than ever to receive information, but the growth of partisan channels has created social challenges such as:

1. Bias confirmation through news shopping. Today’s news consumers can purchase information that supports their political viewpoints while avoiding information that may make them feel uncomfortable, question, or refute their beliefs. The result is a widening sea of ​​tribal and partisan audiences, resulting in a series of distinct information bubbles.
2. Increased social polarization. In the past, consumers shared common news sources even though they had different beliefs. Discussion and discourse were expected and common. The more people gravitate toward expressions that reflect their beliefs, the more polarized they become.
3. Cultural disconnect. As we perceive our reality from sometimes vastly different news sources, cultures are increasingly fragmented, feeling increasingly separate, alienated, and disconnected from each other.
4. Intensification of divisions. Our partisan divisions have resulted in people of other partisan leanings viewing us as hostile, distrustful, ignorant, or even a dangerous threat. . All of this can increase feelings of hypervigilance and lead to an increase in harsh and violent language and behavior towards each other.

Reduce the negative impact of partisan media

While it may be discouraging to think about the feelings of alienation and isolation that partisan news fosters, there are active and intentional steps we can take to lessen the negative impact it has on our emotions and relationships. It’s important to remember that.

1. Develop exposure and curiosity over judgment. Take the time to watch “different” shows than what you normally watch, suspend judgment, and instead challenge yourself to watch and listen with curiosity. Watching different partisan news channels helps us step out of our own information bubble and expand our horizons.
2. Friendly interview. Compassionate interviewing is a process in which you seek to understand the other person’s belief system, rather than trying to assert your own against their belief system. Engaging in this way with people who have very different beliefs that you may not agree with can open up new dialogue and help you develop a more compassionate attitude toward those with opposing beliefs.
3. Resist the reflex that tries to correct you. To approach interviews compassionately with people who hold beliefs different from your own, resist the reflex of trying to correct or “make right” what you consider to be “wrong” or “incorrect” ideas. is needed. Attempts to persuade others to change their minds are rarely successful and often result in greater disconnect and tension. Instead, listen to the fundamental needs and fears that underlie their beliefs and see if there is any room for empathy or sympathy. By doing so, you will be able to see each other’s underlying humanity.
4. A kind and respectful expression. Learning how to listen compassionately and non-judgmentally is one side of the equation. Learning how to speak and share your feelings and opinions in a respectful, non-judgmental or non-aggressive manner is essential. A soft tone of voice, a kind gaze, and respectful intentions go a long way toward feeling respected and heard. While it may be a step too far to suspend the idea that “my perspective is better than yours” and simply acknowledge it as different, it is important to engage in more productive and growth-promoting discussions. Essential to get started.
5. Recognize our common humanity. Although there are political differences between us that can be very divisive, and a partisan news media that sometimes bashes them, we all have a strong commitment to safety, love, happiness, and happiness. We acknowledge that we are largely connected in our basic need of hope. If we can listen more to common human needs and emotions, we can hopefully bridge those gaps further and ultimately realize that we are all on this journey together. It might turn out like this.

We live in an era of rapidly evolving partisan news channels, resulting in increased polarization, cultural disconnect, and division. Some suggestions for dealing with the effects of partisan news include exposing yourself to alternative and opposing news outlets, engaging in thoughtful interviews, resisting the resilience reflex, and being kind and It includes expressing ourselves respectfully and recognizing our common humanity.

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