Which behavior aligns with SPJ ethics?

• A. Publish unverified rumors to be first.
• B. Disclose sources' identities publicly regardless of privacy.
• C. Ignore conflicts of interest.
• D. Respect sources, verify information, and avoid deception.

Answer: (D)

Ethical journalism centers on truth, accuracy, and trust. The behavior that best fits SPJ standards is to respect sources, verify information, and avoid deception because it puts verification in practice—checking facts with reliable sources before publishing, protecting sources’ privacy when needed, and avoiding any deceptive or misleading presentation. This approach upholds accuracy, protects sources, and maintains public trust.

Publishing unverified rumors violates verification and accuracy, spreading unconfirmed information that can mislead readers. Disclosing sources’ identities publicly regardless of privacy breaches confidentiality and safety, which can endanger people and erode trust. Ignoring conflicts of interest undermines independence and credibility; transparency or recusals are expected to maintain objectivity.