Fear factor: a scoping study of the role of fear in news media management during crises

In an era marked by fractured socio-political landscapes and escalating crises, the role of fear in news media management has become increasingly significant. This paper presents a scoping study on the manifestation and impact of fear within news media management processes during crises. The study systematically reviews 18 peer-reviewed articles using Scopus, EBSCOhost, and Web of Science databases to identify key themes and research gaps. Findings highlight the influence of internal and external fear factors on journalists’ professional autonomy, mental health, and organisational dynamics. The analysis also addresses manifestations and functions of fear during crises for news media management. The paper calls for expanded research across different media functions and contexts to better support media professionals and enhance news media management practices.