What is the primary characteristic of yellow journalism?

• A. Accurate reporting
• B. Exclusively hard news
• C. Sensationalism
• D. Investigative reporting

Answer: (C)

Yellow journalism is primarily characterized by sensationalism, which refers to the use of exaggerated or shocking stories to attract more readers and generate curiosity. This style of journalism often prioritizes dramatic headlines and emotional language over factual reporting, leading to a skewing of the truth. Sensationalism aims to engage and provoke the audience, sometimes at the expense of accuracy or depth in coverage.

In contrast, accurate reporting emphasizes truthfulness and reliability, focusing on presenting facts as they are rather than embellishing them. Exclusively hard news signifies straightforward reporting of current events without editorialization, which is not a hallmark of yellow journalism. Investigative reporting, while a crucial aspect of journalism, involves in-depth research and fact-finding that seeks to uncover truth, which stands in stark contrast to the sensationalized and less rigorous approach of yellow journalism.