ATTRIBUTION /at-ri-byoo-shuhn/ noun DEFINITION: The practice of identifying or acknowledging the person, organization, document, or ...
ATTRIBUTION
/at-ri-byoo-shuhn/
noun
DEFINITION: The practice of identifying or acknowledging the person, organization, document, or other source from which information, statements, quotations, or evidence in a news report originates.
IN JOURNALISM: Attribution allows journalists to clearly identify where reported information comes from. It helps readers distinguish verified facts, official statements, expert opinions, and claims made by individuals or organizations.
EXAMPLE: A journalist reporting on a water shortage writes, "The municipality needs 13 liters of water per second but currently receives only nine to 10, according to Mayor Eizelle Avellano-Canimo." By naming the mayor as the source, the journalist attributes the information to a specific official.
WHY IT MATTERS: Proper attribution promotes transparency, strengthens accountability, and enables readers to assess the credibility of information. It also helps prevent misleading reporting by making clear who is responsible for particular statements or claims.
MEDIA LITERACY TIP: When reading a news article, pay attention to phrases such as "according to," "said," and "reported by." These expressions often identify the sources behind the information being presented.
REMEMBER: Attribution identifies who provided information, but it does not automatically establish that the information is accurate. Responsible journalists must still verify important claims, examine supporting evidence, and provide appropriate context.
Sentinel Times | Media Literacy 101
Think critically. Read responsibly. Share wisely.
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