Feature Story Ideas
Curious about where great story ideas come from? Discover the FIVE unique methods I used to brainstorm captivating feature stories. From getting ideas from news reports and thinking of new ideas during personal conversations, each approach sparked fresh and exciting ideas. Learn how these methods can inspire your own creative process. Intrigued to see what I came up with? Read on!
*Disclaimer: Everything is for assignment purposes only*
Project Title:
Feature Writing
School:
Taylor's College
Article:
Feature Articles
News Report
Understanding Pedophilia: Awareness and Education
Background:
This news report is about how attorneys from all 50 U.S. states are urging Congress to address the exploitation of children through AI-generated pornography. Child pornography is an illegal and unethical practice that sexually exploits minors.
When I came across this article, many thoughts ran through my mind. As a part-time teacher who works closely with children, a child's safety is my top priority. I have always despised paedophiles, and reading this news report makes me loathe people who endanger the safety of children even more than I usually do. However, I wonder, why do these people do the things they do? This news report piqued my interest in getting to the bottom of this uncanny behaviour.
Story Angle:
Diving deep into the remarkable, yet not extraordinary, human mind, the story angle I would be going for would be understanding the mind of a paedophile. To the majority of us, one can't ever imagine seeing a minor in a sexual way. We usually have a sense of nurturing when faced with a minor, whereas paedophiles do not. Many questions arise as to why paedophiles think the way they do. Both biological and environmental factors may contribute to the origin of paedophilia. Case studies suggest cerebral dysfunction, including issues with self-control, strong desires, and distorted thinking, may be a contributing or dominating factor in paedophilia. Numerous specialists believe that abnormalities of sexual choice occur as a result of early experiences during essential stages of human development.
Paedophiles frequently report having been sexually assaulted as kids. They try to relive the trauma they suffered by sexually abusing children in order to learn how to control it. In a complete role shift, they gain the advantage and protect themselves from abuse. Early therapy plans, based on psychoanalysis inspired by Freud, placed a strong emphasis on locating and addressing the catastrophic occurrence that took place during the patient's sexual development.
What makes my story angle different / unique from the other published stories of the same topic / angle:
Unlike how other published stories will usually talk about child protection, teaching kids boundaries or internet safety for children, my approach would be to understand the mind of a paedophile and educate ourselves about it. It is essential to possess a basic understanding of paedophilia, which in no way excuse or condone the sexual exploitation of children. Instead, it aims to take a proactive approach to the problem with the end goal of ensuring our children are safe from harm. To make society safer while also ensuring that potential abusers are held accountable for their actions, having empathy and understanding for those who need help to manage their pedophilic urges can be very important.
Understanding paedophilia also enables prevention and treatment for those at risk of hurting children. The stigma of paedophilia can be lessened by having better knowledge of it. As a result, those who have pedophilic tendencies may feel more inclined to seek therapy without worrying about legal or social consequences.
Who will I interview for my story:
1. Males and Females struggling with pedophilia
2. Convicted child molesters
3. Pedophilia Researchers
4. Licensed Mental Health Professionals
5. Therapists Working with Pedophilic Clients
Print Ad
Water is not for me
Background:
This is a printed advertisement by Evian promoting its natural spring water, which they collaborated with Snoopy, a famous character from the comic strip ‘Peanuts’. Evian is a French brand that usually promotes its water as always refreshing and naturally hydrating.
After encountering this ad, it got me to think about the benefits of water, which most people are already aware of. It also reminded me of when I watched a video of how someone can be allergic to water, which I came across on YouTube many years ago. Which then inspired this story pitch.
Story Angle:
Water is essential for all living beings. It hydrates our bodies, promotes healthy skin and nurtures the environment. Not only that, but water also powers electricity and aids in agriculture. Water, all in all, is something that we use in our everyday lives. But what if I told you that not everyone loves water? My story angle would be to share the struggle of individuals who suffer from Aquagenic Urticaria.
Aquagenic Urticaria is an uncommon disorder that causes red, itchy hives to appear on a person's skin when exposed to water. This illness has been recorded in the medical records in roughly 50 cases. Hives develop when the skin comes into contact with any liquid, including rain, snow, sweat, or tears. People who experience this frequently take preventative measures, such as staying indoors on rainy days and avoiding activities that make them sweat. The exact cause of Aquagenic Urticaria is still unknown, but there have been a few theories about this rare condition. For example, an allergen or chemical in the water rather than the water itself.
One of the biggest questions would be if these individuals can drink water since it is something our bodies need to live. Water can be consumed by some patients with Aquagenic Urticaria as long as it is kept off their skin. However, a more severe allergy can strike at any time, resulting in swollen lips and mouth and throat discomfort. In the worst-case scenario, drinking water can cause Anaphylaxis, a reaction that can be fatal. Understanding how these individuals go through their everyday lives without water gives us much insight into this peculiar condition and empathises with their struggles.
What makes my story angle different / unique from the other published stories of the same topic / angle:
Unlike how other published stories will usually talk about the medical information of this condition, encouraging individuals to seek professional help or clinical viewpoints of this condition, my approach would be to explore the human experiences, difficulties and overcomings of those who suffer from this rare condition. By highlighting the value of community, campaigns, and research, my story angle highlights the highly intimate and emotional aspect of people who struggle with Aquagenic Urticaria. This goes beyond raising awareness to inspire support for these people.
Who will I interview for my story:
1. Individuals with Aquagenic Urticaria
2. Medical Professionals
3. Family members of individuals with Aquagenic Urticaria
4. Allergy advocates who focus on rare allergies and skin conditions
Social Media
Fish have feelings too
Background:
This is a meme I encountered while scrolling through Instagram. It is a funny meme about how it would look if the meme's creator turned into a fish and kissed his wife. I found this meme quite silly, and it also reminded me of my brother, who is a fish lover. My brother loves fish, and his room looks like an aquarium shop with breeding tanks and aqua-terrariums, which he had built himself from scratch.
With those meticulous hands of his, his pet fishes live a life more luxurious than any other pet I know. He even plays classical music for his fishes! Which got me thinking more about this particular sentient animal. Are fish beginner-friendly pets, or are we hurting them with this misconception?
Story Angle
Unlike your normal furry or feathery pets, unable to make facial expressions or a sound, they are one of the most abused animals in the world. They are fish. Fish have long been regarded and labelled as beginner-friendly pets, often recommended to kids as they are viewed as low maintenance. Just hand them fish pellets, a tank and water, and they will survive. However, this misconception has led to the severe neglect of fish. My story angle would be to point out the misconception of fish being labelled as beginner-friendly pets and how unfair it is.
For several reasons, fish have falsely gotten the reputation of being quickly taken care of. Fish do not require the same interaction as dogs or cats, making them seem less demanding. This would be one of them. Neglect of fish is an ongoing problem in the world of pet ownership. It stems from the misconception that fish do not need much care and attention. Fish are frequently kept in small tanks, jars, and bottles in the homes of many Malaysians. Small tanks and bottles don't offer enough room for physical activity or behavioural stimulation, which is essential for creating a stress-free and healthy environment. Fish frequently die in aquariums that have been neglected because of broken pumps and algae accumulation.
What makes my story angle different / unique from the other published stories of the same topic / angle:
Unlike how other published stories discuss fish being low maintenance, kid-friendly pets, endangered fish species or fish perfect for your aquarium, my approach would be to educate others on how it isn't kind to label a fish or any pet you want to raise as beginner-friendly. The responsibility to care for a pet, whether a dog, cat, fish or bird, should not be taken lightly. Educating ourselves about our pets' particular requirements and approaching pet ownership with effort and responsibility provides a healthier and more ethical relationship with our animal companions. No animal should endure suffering simply because they are considered easy to care for or beginner-friendly.
Who will I interview for my story:
1. Fish owners
2. Experienced aquarists
3. Aquarium industry experts
4. Fish rescue and rehabilitation organisations
5. Aquatic veterinarians
Environment
Passion is overrated
Background:
This is a picture of the first guitar that my mother bought for me when I was thirteen. I used to attend guitar classes at the time but had quit because I lost interest in learning the guitar. It was too hard for me, which led to the demotivation of learning it, and eventually, I left the musical scene. My mother believed I was not passionate enough, which led to me quitting my guitar classes.
I always wondered if I had the passion to learn guitar, would I have succeeded in mastering the instrument? Exploring the concept of passion and success, I want to question whether passion is genuinely needed for success.
Story Angle:
Nowadays, there is a common saying that doing the things you love or are passionate about will lead to success or doing what you love will make you feel like you've never worked a day. Most people would encourage the younger generation to follow their passions, and it would lead to success, but I wonder how true this is. My story angle would be to talk about how we do not need passion to be successful.
Most of us have been trying to figure out our passion to make it into the life we want, and by pursuing your passion, you can do things you're genuinely excited about, which is undoubtedly remarkable. However, not everyone can succeed simply by following their passion. It is not enough to merely follow your passion blindly to achieve success. Despite having a passion for something, you may still need to improve.
When you start having a deep passion for anything, you may make it your career. However, it may imply you are not good at it, and your chosen line of work may make you work harder every day without giving you any results. While claiming to be doing what you love, you're just working tirelessly to survive. It is all right to experience failure when pursuing your passion; however, success is more than simply pursuing it.
What makes my story angle different / unique from the other published stories of the same topic / angle:
Unlike how other published articles talk about success stories, following your passion, finding your passion and overcoming challenges when pursuing your passion, my approach would be to talk about whether we need passion to strive and be successful in what we do. This is to inspire the younger generation that passion does not equal success, as only some are passionate or have found what they want to do in their lives and for their future. You are not doomed for life just because you do not have passion. There are numerous paths to achievement in life. A lack of passion only sometimes indicates a lack of purpose or success.
Who will I interview for my story:
1. Successful CEOs who are not passionate in their job
2. Entrepreneurs who are successful but not passionate in their jobs
3. People in unpassionate jobs
4. Career coaches
Conversation
Death positivity
Background:
This is my grandmother. She is a retired surgical nurse, a mother to two children and a grandmother of four. Recently, I had invited her out for breakfast to have a conversation and to catch up in our lives. When having a cup of tea with my precious grandmother, she starts talking about death again. My grandmother would always talk about death whenever my family or I visited, and she would constantly tell us who gets to keep whatever stuff she had collected over the years after she passed, as she had already planned her death and was ready to embrace the afterlife. She is not afraid to talk about death and is very open about it.
This made me think about why older people plan their deaths and how it is not always negative.
Story Angle:
Death is a sensitive and taboo subject when involving the elderly. It is often surrounded by words such as denial, fear and avoidance. It is a very negative subject. However, death can be something positive or what some elderly look forward to. My story angle would be to explore why the elderly engage in end-of-life planning and how some are so open about it.
When the elderly plan for their death, they can give their families peace of mind. This can lessen the emotional strain on their family members during challenging moments. In addition, knowing that their personal affairs are in order and their intentions will be respected, planning for death gives one a sense of closure. The elderly may also be motivated to live more entirely by accepting that they will eventually die, cherishing their relationships, opening themselves up to new experiences, and following their passions, doing what they love or have never done. End-of-life planning can help people celebrate life rather than dwell on death.
What makes my story angle different / unique from the other published stories of the same topic / angle:
Unlike other published story articles talking about people involved in death, how we should embrace mortality and the psychological factors behind end-of-life planning, my story angle would be to explore the reasons behind elders planning their deaths and how it is not always a bad thing. The topic of death planning should not be a negative subject. Open discussions regarding end-of-life planning can have positive effects, like lessening the stress on the family. These conversations promote connections between loved ones, resulting in more kind final moments. By encouraging these discussions, we can recognise the impact we may make on our loved ones whilst preparing for death. A step towards a more empathetic society will be the end of prejudices connected to death planning.
Who will I interview for my story:
1. Elderly individuals involved in end-of-life planning
2. Family members of elder individuals involved in end-of-life planning
3. Hospice Workers
4. End-of-life researchers and bioethicists
5. Social Workers
6. Mental health professionals
Appendices
1. News Report:
2. Print Advertisement:
https://www.maxit.my/2023/06/evian-and-snoopy-unveil-exclusive-limited-edition-water-bottle-designs/
3. Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/p/CqvsSioPm-g/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
