Does it annoy you when the press asks people how they feel in a tragedy?

The reason they ask that open question is to give people a chance to express themselves. However, I do agree that it usually comes across as both stupid and heartless. And it's not often that anyone can be articulate at such times. But what PastorP said is true. Coverage is needed where help is needed. Everyone should be made aware and given an opportunity to help. Perhaps reporters should be reminded that a picture speaks a thousand words.

Reporters are just mean people. It's their jobs to ask all of the annoying questions that no one wants to answer. No wonder why celebrities pretty much HATE paparazzo! Not to throw this analogy out there, but have you ever seen a discussion here on MyLot like "How do you feel if you're going to die in 2 days?" or "How did you feel when you first got paid from MyLot?". It seems like these "how do you feel" questions are usually ones that need not be answered; that they're self-explanatory and anyone with a HEART will generally feel the same way as everyone else. *shrugs*

You are so right, it is an annoying, air filling inappropriate question. I think I would ask "How can I help, or How can we help?" I would answer something to the effect that I feel my gut is being wrenched out.

It sure does annoy me! Someone has just been through hell and maybe has been hurt or has lost a loved one and some jerk shoves a microphone in their face and asks them how they feel. I would say something sarcastic along the lines of, “What do your reckon?” It is a tactless, insensitive and stupid question all to sell news... How about asking. “Is there anything anyone can do to help you?” instead.

Hi savypat, I know what you mean but it is their job to ask such questions and without media coverage we would not know of such stories. Although I do not follow the news, I think it is important for others to know so maybe they can help out a little. I know if I was asked such a question I know I would be angry.

While it does sound like a stupid question, it is possible that it is a conversation opener that allows the person being interviewed the space to express themselves...and they may feel grateful for the chance to say how they feel. Imagining myself in the other person's shoes, and having just gone thru a disaster, I probably would like someone to care enough and approach me, and ask me how I am...just to be able to verbally let all my emotions out...especially when a situation allows someone to give another perspective. For me, I just might want to clear things up with the reporter, so he has the information straight. This kind of questioning can go both ways, I guess. But the most important thing is to have a reporter who is willing to listen, and show compassion, if he/she is going ask those kind of questions.

Reporters are always looking for good source of news especially during disasters. Others miseries are their fortune. Don't ask anything as the sight of the disasters is self explanatory and there is no point of giving answers to foolish question like that.

Oh my gosh, how many times I've asked myself the same question. Why in the world would you ask someone how they feel after such disasters or devastation. Soooo stupid. I think the only thing I'd say is "is there anything you'd like to say?" and leave it up to the person, I guess. This gives them the opportunity to either say something, or to say "no, not at this time".

I agree with you totally. I can't stand it when they ask such a stupid question as to how they are feeling right not. Give me a break. My question would be "What can I do for you at this moment?" or "What do you need at this very moment?"

Actually it does.It's like how do you think they feel?It is dumb that they ask that.Don't make sense to ask that question,of corse the person devastated.