The role of specialized Algerian sports journalism in reducing sports fanaticism among university students

Abstract

In our current era, media has become one of the most important pillars of socialization and awareness, especially after the astonishing technological revolution that has occurred and continues to occur, making the world a global village in the truest sense of the word. The information revolution carried out by media across the globe can be considered a major chapter in our contemporary history. Sports media, as a branch of media, has played and continues to play a significant role in the process of socialization and awareness through its various media outlets, particularly specialized sports journalism, which has witnessed remarkable spread and development in our country (Algeria). It plays a crucial role in shaping the behaviors and actions of members of society, especially the youth. This demographic, which constitutes the largest segment of our society, representing two-thirds of the population, is also the most vulnerable to all kinds of negative social phenomena. Among the most prominent of these phenomena, which has plagued this group throughout history, is the phenomenon of fanaticism. Intolerance is a global phenomenon that societies suffer from in one way or another and in any activity of life. Despite the media progress that man lives in, he still suffers from many problems that are practiced under many names of intolerance, such as religious intolerance, regional intolerance, sectarian intolerance, self-indulgence, or sports intolerance, whose direct causes include fans, players, referees, administrators, and the media. One of the unfortunate things that has become attached to sports competitions, especially recently, is what is known as sports intolerance on the part of sports viewers. How many people have lost their lives or been seriously injured while watching a sports match? Fan intolerance is also considered one of the important factors that leads to an increased susceptibility to excitement among players during sports competition. Therefore, it is important to use public awareness programs as an aid in limiting and reducing this intolerance. This is where the role of sports media in general, and specialized sports journalism in particular, becomes apparent. To combat this phenomenon, those responsible for communication in these sports newspapers play a significant role in changing many undesirable behaviors and actions. This is achieved by correcting inappropriate conduct, raising awareness and educating young people on how to deal with fanaticism and control their emotions through fostering sportsmanship, promoting public awareness of the noble goals of sports, and developing sports knowledge among youth. The aim of this research is to highlight the role of sports media in general, and specialized sports journalism in particular, in reducing the phenomenon of sports fanaticism among university students.