Recently, we were aghast when we heard about a mom in California who injected her 8-year old with Botox, and later on we we learned it was a hoax. One of the most interesting aspects of this story to me is the fact that “Good Morning America” and “Inside Edition” allegedly offered to pay the mom for her story. Why pay??? As public relations professionals, most of us work very diligently to generate awareness for our clients via credible media. When the media pay for interviews it may appear to reduce the legitimacy of the segment…and of the show. I realize all national stations put offers on the table for “got to have them” stories, but as a consumer, it could be viewed as somewhat offensive. As an entrepreneur and businesswoman, I understand the significance for getting the story and the viewers that go along with…ratings, ratings, ratings.
The story itself is a parenting debacle and the lessons are multiple…the Huffington Post characterized them and the overall situation very well. What do you think?
Article for reference: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/05/19/sheena-upton-botox-mom-hoax_n_864148.html
MotherofAllPR 