Huvudnyhetskurva

Huvudnyhetskurva is a term used in journalism and media studies to describe how attention to a major news event rises and falls over a news cycle. The concept focuses on the relative prominence of the event in headlines, broadcasts, and online coverage, from the moment breaking news first appears to the eventual decline in prominence as new stories emerge.

The typical shape of the kurva features a sharp initial peak during breaking news, followed by a gradual decline as more information is published and audience interest shifts. Some events may experience secondary bumps due to new developments, follow-up investigations, anniversaries, or related topics. The exact curve can vary by outlet, platform, topic, and geographic region, and social media dynamics can influence both the speed of the peak and the duration of attention.

Measurement and use: outlets may map the curve using metrics such as front-page placements, broadcast time, article counts, social media engagement, and page views. This helps editors allocate resources, determine when to push follow-up coverage, and balance depth with speed. The huvudnyhetskurva is closely related to the news cycle and agenda-setting literature, offering a descriptive tool rather than a prescriptive guideline.

Critique: the model can oversimplify how audiences engage with news and may overlook niche or regional coverage, long-tail reporting, or persistent relevance beyond the main peak.