Objective:This research aims to identify and propose solutions to strengthen the social responsibility of journalists within the framework of the Press Law of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Social responsibility in journalism plays a vital role in enhancing public trust, transparency of information, and improving the quality of news dissemination. In this regard, this study examines how journalists' social responsibility can be reinforced through the provision of effective solutions within the existing legal framework.
Methods:The current research is applied and quantitative, conducted through a survey method. The statistical population of this study includes active journalists in Iranian media. A sample size of 145 individuals was determined, and the accessible sampling method was used to select the participants. Data were collected through a questionnaire, and Cronbach's Alpha test was used to evaluate its reliability. Data analysis was carried out using SPSS and AMOS software, with statistical tests such as the one-sample t-test, first-order confirmatory factor model, and Friedman test used to assess hypotheses and prioritize solutions.
Result:The findings of the research revealed that strengthening journalists' social responsibility is of great importance and can significantly improve their professional performance. The proposed solutions in this study include job security, support for journalists by professional organizations, professional independence, objectivity and impartiality, and specialized training. Job security was identified as the most important factor in strengthening journalists' social responsibility. The results show that journalists can perform at their best when they have job security and are not concerned about losing their job.
Support from journalists' professional organizations is also an important factor in reducing economic pressures, which can guarantee their professional independence. Additionally, objectivity and impartiality in reporting help increase public trust in the media and lead to the dissemination of accurate and reliable information.
Specialized training in journalism was also identified as a key factor in strengthening journalists' social responsibility. These training programs enhance journalists' professional skills and knowledge, preparing them to face ethical and professional challenges in this field. Furthermore, these programs can help journalists stay up-to-date with new changes and developments in the media landscape.
The research findings indicated that journalists' political orientation does not have a significant impact on their social responsibility. This suggests that structural and professional factors such as job security, professional independence, and specialized training have a greater influence on journalists' social responsibility than their political views.
Conclusions: this research recommends that policymakers and media managers take fundamental actions to strengthen journalists' social responsibility, including enhancing supportive laws, developing specialized training programs, and creating appropriate structures to preserve professional independence. These measures not only improve journalists' performance but can also contribute to increasing public trust and raising awareness of various societal issues.