You have the right to manage how your story is told. This includes how much you share, when you decide to tell your story, and where and how you engage with the journalist.
Setting boundaries and conditions
Consider your boundaries – what you are happy to talk about and what you are not. You have the right to share none, some or all of your story – it’s up to you what you decide to share. Talk with the journalist as to what is safe territory for you. This can also be discussed with people you trust such as family, friends and/or advocates.
Here are some other ideas to consider as part of your conditions before talking with the journalist, noting that you may not have control over these in all situations:
How do you want to be named: your name, anonymous or a pseudonym?
Do you prefer to be described as a victim, a survivor, or something else?
Ask the journalist if you can record the conversation for your own record (e.g., on your phone).
Do you want to check any quotes that are used?
Do you want to see a final copy of the story? This may not always be possible but you can discuss it with the journalist.
Do you want to suggest particular images to be used? What are your boundaries? What images are you comfortable with and what images would not be appropriate?
If a story is published online, consider whether you want to ask to have the comments closed.
It is worth exploring if an outlet has a process for a formal agreement for the terms of the interview/story – if so, seek advice from others (media professional or advocate).
While journalists can be empathetic and good listeners, their role is not a therapeutic or legal one. Be clear on personal and professional boundaries with the journalist from the start.
You may become close with a journalist over the period of the story, but a journalist is not equipped to support you in a therapeutic way.
You can establish clear boundaries regarding how and when you engage.
Consider having a support person to accompany or advise you.
To feel safe and to achieve your desired interview aspirations, you must take control by requiring pre-agreed boundaries of questions and answers. Consider getting an advocate to assist you.
