Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) is illegal in Uganda, yet it continues in some communities. Its reporting places journalists in challenging positions. While the research literature has focused on survivors, the psychological impact on those who observe the procedure has been largely overlooked. Men’s experiences in relation to the practice are also poorly understood, as are the perspectives of others who are secondarily affected. This study examines the mental health effects of covering FGM/C through structured interviews with seven male Ugandan journalists, using thematic analysis and psycholinguistic assessment. Key themes include general mental health concerns, intrusive thoughts, survivor identification, and protective instincts. Linguistic analysis reveals trauma indicators such as speech disorganization, raised voices, and stuttering—linked to emotional flooding and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Findings from the Cloitre et al. (2018). International Trauma Questionnaire (ITQ) show five of six participants exhibit trauma-related dysfunction, with two meeting PTSD criteria. These findings illustrate the potentially profound psychological impacts of covering FGM/C and highlight the need for better mental health resources for journalists.

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“Because I Saw It Myself”: FGM/C Reporting and Journalist Trauma in Uganda

  • Svea Vikander,
  • Christine Kabazira,
  • Roxane Volclair

摘要

Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) is illegal in Uganda, yet it continues in some communities. Its reporting places journalists in challenging positions. While the research literature has focused on survivors, the psychological impact on those who observe the procedure has been largely overlooked. Men’s experiences in relation to the practice are also poorly understood, as are the perspectives of others who are secondarily affected. This study examines the mental health effects of covering FGM/C through structured interviews with seven male Ugandan journalists, using thematic analysis and psycholinguistic assessment. Key themes include general mental health concerns, intrusive thoughts, survivor identification, and protective instincts. Linguistic analysis reveals trauma indicators such as speech disorganization, raised voices, and stuttering—linked to emotional flooding and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Findings from the Cloitre et al. (2018). International Trauma Questionnaire (ITQ) show five of six participants exhibit trauma-related dysfunction, with two meeting PTSD criteria. These findings illustrate the potentially profound psychological impacts of covering FGM/C and highlight the need for better mental health resources for journalists.