Issues, Etc. Media Coverage of a Mass Shooting at a Catholic School – Terry Mattingly, 8/28/25 (2401)
Aug 28, 2025
Terry Mattingly, a Senior Fellow on Communications and Culture, explores the often-overlooked complexities of media narratives following tragedies, particularly a mass shooting at a Catholic school. He critiques how discussions tend to shift from the shooter's mental health to political issues like gun control. Mattingly emphasizes the importance of truth and educational outreach in faith communities. He also delves into media ethics and how the portrayal of victims versus shooters can shape public perception and discourse on safety and spirituality.
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Media Coverage Falls Into Partisan Templates
- Terry Mattingly observes media responses default to two partisan templates: 'guns' on the left and 'trans' on the right.
- These templates shape coverage and narrow what factual questions reporters pursue.
Inconsistent Identity Reporting Complicates Motive
- Mattingly notes outlets like AP handle pronouns and identity inconsistently when shootings occur.
- That inconsistency complicates reporting about motive and identity in such cases.
Ask Factual Questions Before Applying Labels
- Ask factual, documentable questions about manifestos, toxicology, and mental-health indicators instead of relying on partisan templates.
- Review preserved social media and official records to substantiate motive-related claims.
