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Journalism is a powerful tool that informs people about the world. However, sometimes journalists or media companies use manipulation techniques to influence public opinion. These techniques can change how people think or feel about a situation, a person or an event.

One of the common manipulation techniques used in journalism is sensationalism. This means making the news more exciting or shocking than it really is. Journalists use big headlines or emotional words to get attention. For example, they may say “Disaster!” instead of “Problem” to make people more interested.

The other one is selective information. Sometimes, the media tells only part of the story. They choose what to show and what to hide. This can make the audience think something is more serious or more positive than it is in reality.

Journalists sometimes use words that make people feel angry, sad or afraid. Emotional language helps control how readers feel about a topic. For example, calling someone a “hero” or a “monster” changes the reader’s view.

Images are powerful too. A photo can tell a story without words. Journalists may choose photos that create a specific mood or idea, even if it is not the full truth. A smiling photo can make someone look good, while an angry photo can make someone look bad.

False balance shows two sides of an issue as equal, even when one side is clearly wrong or untrue. It can confuse people and make fake information seem real.

If a message is repeated many times, people start to believe it, even if it’s not true. Journalists may repeat certain ideas or phrases to make them seem important or correct.

The media often uses “experts” or numbers to make stories look true. But sometimes these experts are not real specialists, or the numbers are used in a misleading way.

It is important to read news carefully and think critically. Always check information from different sources. Knowing these manipulation techniques can help you understand the news better and make smart decisions.