25 pages, via online Journal, The spread of non-prescription opioid abuse has increased to the point that a person is now more likely to die from an accidental overdose than an automobile accident. Rural areas have been hit particularly hard, and many farmers indicate direct impacts resulting from the opioid epidemic. Researchers have recognized the role of the media in communicating complicated issues and influencing potential solutions. This study analyzed the frames and sources used to communicate issues regarding the rural opioid epidemic in The New York Times and five additional newspapers from states most affected by the opioid epidemic. A total of 115 news, feature, editorial, and other articles were analyzed. The most often used frame was “growth or spread” of the epidemic and the sources most frequently referenced were medical professionals and elected officials. Although a non-traditional issue in agriculture, agricultural communicators should not shy away from getting involved given the potential for harm to rural communities and, in turn, the agriculture industry. Future studies should investigate rural community member and journalist perceptions on the issue, as well as coverage in other states.
Agricultural Communications Documentation Center, Funk Library, University of Illinois Document Number: C26483
Notes:
Pages 437-447 in Zachary Michael Jack (ed.), Love of the land: essential farm and conservation readings from an American Golden Age, 1880-1920. Cambria Press, Youngstown, New York. 463 pages., From a 1918 book by Galpin, Rural life. (pages 261-276)
Page 65-66 in Extension Circular 541, Review of Extension Research, January through December 1961, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, D.C. Summary of thesis for the master of agriculture in rural sociology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park. 1961. 71 pages.
Brown, Laurie Ezzell (author / Canadian Record, Canadian, Texas)
Format:
Speech
Publication Date:
2007-04-20
Published:
USA
Location:
Agricultural Communications Documentation Center, Funk Library, University of Illinois Box: 158 Document Number: C25753
Notes:
Presented in acceptance of the Tom and Pat Gish Award for courage, tenacity and integrity in rural journalism. Presented by the Institute for Rural Journalism and Community Issues at the National Summit on Journalism in Rural America, Lexington, Kentucky, April 20, 2007. 3 pages.
