WACO (July 30, 2009)—A study by Baylor University researchers finds that the negative portrayal of journalism in the popular “Harry Potter” books may give a generation of young readers a negative perception of the profession and those who practice it.

The study finds that the “overwhelmingly negative representation of journalism throughout the first six books” raises concerns that young readers will come to view journalism “as corrupt, deceptive and an unattractive career choice.”

“The books present an unnecessarily pessimistic view of journalism today,” said Dr. Amanda Sturgill, senior lecturer in journalism at Baylor and one of the study co-authors.

“Since literature can play an important role in helping children learn and possibly empathize with situations experienced by the characters, the potential for influence on journalism is strong.”

Sturgill and co-authors Jessica Winney of the University of Houston-Clear Lake and Tina Libhart of Baylor, analyzed portions from the first six “Harry Potter” books that mentioned media in any form including newspapers, magazines, radios and textbooks.

“While the Harry Potter books are valued for their ability to entertain and engage readers, children are reading about things they may not experience,” Sturgill said

“A lot of exposure to careers and appropriate social behaviors can come through children’s literature. The implications of the negative portrayal of journalism are quite broad when one considers the popularity of the series.”