It seems to me that trend stories in mainstream, well-respected newspapers may be on the rise. Based on anecdotal evidence and a few outdated statistics, the bomb-dropping boom in baseless, exaggerated stories could be a result of the economic downturn. Reporters strapped for cash and story ideas are turning to alarmist trends like sexting or quirky quips about guys with cats, in the hopes that subtle phrasing and some seemingly authoritative sources can salvage that "brilliant" story idea they pitched to their editor. Who cares if there's not really a trend here. I've done too much work to give up on it now, right?
A recent survey conducted by the National Alliance of Trendiness reports that 95 percent of journalists have to turn in stories on deadline, meaning this increase in trends could be indirectly correlated to stress and high-intensity work situations. Smoking and high fiber diets could also contribute to the problem.
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