5. The mechanisms of media storms

Abstract

This chapter investigates the underlying mechanisms of media storms. In other words, what happens exactly on the level of the news-making process when a storm breaks? From the literature, two complementary mechanisms are derived: lower gatekeeping thresholds and imitation. To illustrate these mechanisms, a qualitative dataset of sixteen semi-structured interviews with senior editors and news managers is used. I find evidence for both mechanisms. Lowering thresholds do explain why media storms occur. Further, news outlets look at each other, imitation is daily routine. But the process of imitation is intensified by the presence of a media storm, especially between directly competing outlets.