Phenomenon of Targeting Journalists and their Impact on Professional Performance and Self-Censorship (Palestinian Journalists as an Example)

Abstract

This is a study concerned with the phenomenon of targeting journalists and their impact on professional performance and practice self-censorship. This descriptive study used quantitative and qualitative approach, the random sampling were used in selecting 220 Palestinian Journalists, it aimed at investigating the impact of practicing self-censorship among the Palestinian journalists. The findings shows that the pressure imposed on the Palestinian journalists make them practice self-censorship regarding the social and political issues. Also, results indicate that 64% of Palestinian journalists have been subject to harassment; and 50.9% suffered from problems after publishing political issues; meanwhile 75% of the journalists faced problems after the publication of certain social issues. The result of the study confirmed that the Palestinian journalists practice self-censorship.