Coping With Breaking News

When the U.S. invaded Iraq last year, families of soldiers watched combat on live TV, covered for the first time by “embedded” reporters. Witnessing real-time battles added much additional stress, according to a study of families by the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York.

Many spouses were consumed by the media blitz, especially in the war’s first weeks. Some reported watching more than eight hours of TV per day or waking throughout the night for updates. Turning off the TV or resolving not to watch breaking news helped families lessen their anxiety, says Kathleen Campbell, a professor of leadership and management studies. Says Campbell, “The people who coped best were the ones who realized watching TV wouldn’t affect whether or not things happen.”