Media coverage of public relations

Media coverage of public relations topics is discussed and a census of network television news stories about public relations is described. An increase in coverage from 1980 through 1995 is found. Politicians and foreign governments are the most commonly reported on users. Stories tend to have a neutral tone and assume the press agentry model of public relations. Themes usually involve war, disaster, or distraction. Explanations of the type of coverage and potential audience effects are brought up.