The Influence of the Media on Social Conflicts’ Dynamics

Abstract

The article examines the features of the influence of the media on the dynamics of social conflict. The main stages of the conflict development from the emergence of tension, the emergence of contradictions, the escalation of confrontation is considered. It has been established that the media are able to influence the development of social conflict at every stage and can inform the public about social confrontation and act as instigators or participants in the conflict. It is noted that at the latent stage of social conflict, media reports form perceptions of certain social groups and institutions; at the stage of confrontation, «hate speech» media can escalate and turn the media into a subject of conflict. Emphasis is placed on the spread of stereotypes about the subjects of conflict interaction in the media, which influences the further development of the confrontation. The example of the conflict in Rwanda shows the influence of the media on the escalation of the armed conflict. It has been established that the media use «hate speech» in their materials. The influence of the media on the dynamics of social conflict without its further escalation is traced on the example of religious confrontation. It is noted that within the framework of the Mediachek project the examination of journalistic materials is carried out, which are checked for compliance with professional standards and compliance with the law. Stereotypes, incorrect statements in mass media coverage of events with internally displaced persons in Ukraine are considered. The main problems that arise when covering the conflict in the media have been identified. It has been proven that the media are a powerful force capable of preventing, exacerbating and regulating various types of conflicts. It is emphasized that the principles of «peace journalism» contain the provisions of conflict theory. It is noted that a number of measures and research are being conducted in Ukraine aimed at avoiding the influence of the media on the aggravation of conflict interaction. It is established that the use of the principles of tolerance, journalistic standards and ethics, the provisions of «peace journalism» will help to establish public relations, reduce stereotypes and prevent the use of «hate speech».