Unnamed Sources Policy

PsyTheater prefers on-the-record sources, public documents and clear attribution. Unnamed sources are used rarely and only when a strong editorial reason exists.

In mental health and psychology coverage, anonymity is not a shortcut around verification. Claims about people, organizations, treatment, research, clinical practice or safety must be handled carefully whether a source is named or unnamed.

Why we prefer named sources

• Named sources improve transparency and accountability.
• Readers can better evaluate credibility.
• Clear attribution reduces confusion and rumor.
• Public documents and direct quotes are usually stronger than anonymous claims.

When an unnamed source may be considered

An unnamed source may be considered only when the information is important to readers, cannot reasonably be obtained on the record, the source has direct knowledge, the source’s identity is known to the editorial team, and there is a credible reason for confidentiality.

When we avoid unnamed sources

PsyTheater should not grant anonymity for ordinary opinion, speculation, personal attacks, promotional claims, unsupported allegations, information available from public sources, or claims that cannot be meaningfully checked.

Editorial approval

A writer or editor must explain why anonymity is requested and how the information can be evaluated. Sensitive claims involving reputation, legal issues, clinical practice, safety or public institutions require extra editorial caution.

How we describe unnamed sources

Descriptions should be as specific as possible without identifying the source. Vague phrases such as “sources say” should be avoided unless there is a clear reason and sufficient corroboration.

Corroboration and verification

Unnamed claims should be checked against documents, data, other sources or official responses where possible. Anonymous sourcing alone is generally not enough for serious allegations.

Reader trust

Unnamed sources are an exception, not a routine method. Readers can ask questions or raise concerns at [email protected].