THE EFFECT OF GRATIFICATION ON THE PRACTICE OF JOURNALISM

THE EFFECT OF GRATIFICATION ON THE PRACTICE OF JOURNALISM (A CASE STUDY OF ESBS ENUGU)

ABSTRACT

The   pace of social development every where seems   to be quickened by the important roles the mass communication play in our society. Unfortunately, effect of gratification on the practice of journalism is on the increase and it has now posed seriously concern to enlightened Nigerian. The study is aimed to find out why journalists demand gratification and if the practice influences the selections of news to be aired. A survey was employed in the study responses were coded in percentages and presented in tables.  The result of the study the study shows the lack of financial stability is the major reason why journalists demand and accept gratification.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1    Background of the study

In this dynamic and challenging society of ours, the role of Nigerian mass media is too many to mention. Journalism practice has performed enormous and crucial roles for meaningful rural and national development. The Nigerian media serve as a pivot upon which socio-economic political and cultural activities revolve. It is on this basis is   that many succession governments in Nigeria depend largely on the support of the media in propagating their polices and programmer to the people.

This rise in the mass media and mass communication as journalism practice has been stimulated in various science.  The reason for this can be explained by the simple realization that people are curious beings.  They are inquisitive mind always seals to comprehend and interpret the world around them and the occurrence therein. Above all, people are social beings; they are communicating creatures Umechukwu (20000).

The development of popular newspapers and periodicals broadcasting   has led to institutional and cultural innovations, this permitting efficient and rapid communication between a few individuals and large populations, these various   media of communication have been responsible for the rise in the social empowerment of citizen of modern societies. Additionally, the media have shifted though generally, from the traditional roles to more vocationally relevant objectives, which embrace the promotion of people’s interest in society in all sphere of life.

Hoggert (1957) endorses the above view when he observes that, over the years, mass media have become an important force in society not only as a means for the expression of ideas also as a social force to be reckoned with and a vehicle for mobilization.