Psychiatrists’ media involvement: A survey of attitudes

Background: Psychiatrists may face challenging core medical ethics questions since the media encourages their assistance and participation at various levels. This paper examines attitudes of psychiatrists regarding their involvement with the media and their view of their professional association in such incidents. Methods: A survey was completed by a convenience sample of 81 Israeli psychiatrists. The specially designed questionnaire was compiled by the research team focusing on potential involvement of the psychiatrist regarding reality shows; discussing criminality and responsibility in the media; media involvement of the national psychiatric association and appearing in the media in matters of public education and mental health literacy. Results: Psychiatrists are largely reluctant to engage with the mass media. At the same time, they support a strong media presence by their professional psychiatric association. Conclusion: Professional psychiatry associations should consider deliberating the issue of media involvement further and contemplate further development of ethical recommendations on the issue.