Ethical Dilemmas and Psychological Stress: The Impact on Pakistani Journalists in Conflict Zones­

Abstract

This study investigates the ethical dilemmas and psychological stress faced by journalists reporting from conflict-affected regions of Pakistan, with a focus on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and surrounding rural districts. Data was collected between 2015 and 2025 using two primary methods: semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. The research included 10 professional journalists with direct experience covering high-stress and conflict-related news stories. Primary data were gathered through these interviews, while secondary data were drawn from media reports and published articles. Thematic analysis revealed a range of recurring issues, including psychological stress, burnout, moral complexity, and the standardized nature of self-censorship. Journalists repeatedly reported a lack of institutional support—such as trauma-informed training, mental health resources, or editorial protection—which exacerbated their emotional and ethical burdens. Urban-rural divide became an important factor: the stress was more severe, professional growth was restricted, and the physical danger was higher in the rural or underserved localities than in the urban areas. Female journalists found other levels of harassment and exclusion as well. On the whole, the research raises the issue of systemic neglect, exposure to trauma, and political pressure as the factors that interact to impair the well-being of journalists as well as the quality of conflict reporting. The study demands immediate institutional changes that are required to establish a safer, more ethical, and trauma-sensitive media environment in Pakistan.