Things to Consider Before Accepting an Interview Request
Working with the media can provide a great opportunity to highlight the issue of trauma, but it also exposes you to risk if you have been a victim of violence and/or have experienced a mental illness and want to speak out. Following are some questions to consider before providing a media interview.
Understanding Your Objectives
- What are your motivations for doing the interview?
- What do you hope to achieve by sharing your personal story?
- Are you willing to take your story public and to be quoted?
Considering the Impact
- What are the long- and short-term consequences to you of doing the interview?
- Have you considered the best and worst outcomes?
- Will it empower you or increase your anxiety? Could it jeopardize your security? Could the experience trigger PTSD or other symptoms?
- Will you need support and, if so, will you have it available during and after the interview?
Researching the Media Outlet
- Could callers phone in or audience participants ask you questions during your interview that might be difficult for you to answer on the spot?
- Is the media outlet or station requesting the interview credible and fair? Does it have a good track record of treating victims with dignity and respect?
- Will the perpetrator/accused or defense attorney participate in the interview or story?
 |
