We live in a time when problems and conflicts are an almost inevitable part of media content, social networks, and even private conversations. Have we as a society become accustomed to tension to the point that calm, beautiful, and constructive stories seem boring to us? Do we consciously or unconsciously choose drama and what does that say about our collective state? Guesting on Boje jutra on TV Vijesti, Dr. Maida Burdžović, a specialist in psychiatry, said that evolution has actually taught us to see danger first.
"We can't blame society alone. Human evolution is such that we have always noticed danger first. In moments when we hear unpleasant news, substances are secreted in the body that trigger faster and more intense reactions than when we hear something nice," explains Dr. Burdžović.
She adds that long-term exposure to crises and instability, which have lasted for decades in this region, leaves consequences.
"Our population has adapted to constant crises, but long-term suffering leads to emotional numbness. We are less and less likely to truly enjoy beautiful things, and we notice and spread negative information much more easily," she says.
According to her, an additional problem is the increase in anxiety and depression, because of which people, even in good circumstances, see the bad more often than the good.
Ananije Jovanović, a trainer in the field of public speaking and media, emphasizes that the relationship between the audience and the media is not one-sided.
"Journalists often say, 'If it bleeds, it makes the front page.' It sounds harsh, but it describes the reality. When you look at the front pages, positive news is rare," says Jovanović.
However, he emphasizes that the role of the media is not to embellish reality.
"The media should inform, criticize the system and ask questions. But the fact is that information that provokes a strong reaction – tragedies, scandals, conflicts – gets more attention. The truth is somewhere in between: the audience reacts to such content, and the media, driven by profit, follows it," he explains.
He adds that positive topics often remain in the background because they are presented superficially, without serious treatment.
"The audience does not avoid positive topics, they avoid superficiality. If we want beautiful and constructive stories to get space, we must approach them seriously and responsibly," says Jovanović.
Even in private conversations, concerns and complaints dominate. Dr. Burdžović believes that the media is no longer the main culprit.
"Some people need to relieve themselves through negative stories. But if someone only shares bad news with you every time you meet, then they may be using you as a therapist. It's important to learn to set boundaries," she points out.
When asked what would be a healthy information measure today, Dr. Burdžović answers:
"Selectivity and limited time spent with the news. We don't have to follow every situation from start to finish. It's much more important to deal with our own lives and tidy up our 'backyard.'"
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