The Dilemma of Mouthpiece: Work Adjustment and Career Decision of News Presenters in Transformation of Chinese Broadcast Media

Abstract

Guided by the theory of work adjustment (TWA), this study endeavors to investigate the relationship between the work adjustment of news presenters and their career decisions. Taking into account the unique circumstances of the Chinese media landscape and the applicability of TWA, a qualitative research design was adopted, in which 35 news presenters were interviewed to generate data that could be coded to construct a theoretical framework. The findings reveal that the disenchantment of professional authority and the bureaucratic management of Chinese official media have resulted in a negative work adjustment experience for news presenters. However, the study discovered no substantial departure of current news presenters from the industry. Despite the unpleasant work adjustment experiences, the ultra-stability of their jobs offered by official media and the appeal of occupational fame have drawn news presenters back to their existing careers. This study constructed a contextual framework to comprehend the work adjustment phenomenon among Chinese state-affiliated institutions, and offered advice for media managers and students of Broadcasting and Hosting Art major.