The interview in Brazilian journalism: a review of studies

Abstract

This paper analyses journalistic interview as a research subject. After conducting a review of the Brazilian literature on this subject, we found four main approaches: the technical-normative literature on the typologies and norms to conduct this interaction; works with an historical-archeological ambition in which the interview is associated to the development of information journalism in Brazil; studies that analyze the interactions between interviewer, interviewee and public; and studies on the way these conversations are restituted. This review points out that journalistic interview is briefly covered by the communication studies. Some publications often reinforces a technical and normative interpretation of the interview. On other hand, interview is seen as a departure point to a larger discussion on journalism practice and on journalism-sources relationships. These studies seek to question or reinforce the journalist- interviewer’s role as a representative of public interest.