Module 2: Sources May Not Understand Their Risks

Welcome to Module 2 of the Sensitive Source Safety Training.

Abstract:

Sensitive sources and whistleblowers often come forward in moments of moral urgency, but stress, isolation, or trauma can cloud their judgment. This course equips you with the tools to recognise when sources may not fully understand the risks they face. We explore whistleblower psychology, the impact of moral distress, and how to support vulnerable individuals through transparent and responsible communication.

About this course:

From corporate misconduct to government abuse, disclosures often emerge under immense personal strain. Many sensitive sources and whistleblowers underestimate the long-term consequences of exposure—believing anonymity is guaranteed, or failing to anticipate retaliation. How can you recognise when stress is impairing judgment? What are the warning signs of reckless behaviour that could put sources and the reporting in danger? And how do you balance encouragement with honesty about risks, consequences, and the limits of protection?

This module addresses these questions with real-world scenarios and interactive exercises. 

What do I learn?

You will learn how to:

• Understand whistleblower psychology and moral distress.
  
• Recognise signs of trauma, moral distress, isolation, and compromised judgment.
  
• Identify red flags for reckless behaviour or security risks.
  
• Build trust through transparent communication about realistic risks, the scope of disclosures, verification processes, and the limits of protection guarantees.

What do I need to know:

This module is designed for journalists who work with sensitive sources and whistleblowers. No prior knowledge or training is required.

About the teachers: This module is presented by Delphine Halgand-Mishra, the Founding Executive Director of The Signals Network. TSN former chief of staff Kate Miller created these modules. Since 2017, the organization has provided support and protection to hundreds of sensitive sources.

About The Signals Network: The Signals Network is a nonprofit organization that supports whistleblowers who disclose information in the public interest. It provides legal, psychological, physical safety, and advocacy assistance to help protect sources and amplify their disclosures.

About the Reynolds Journalism Institute: The Reynolds Journalism Institute is a journalism support organization based out of the University of Missouri that empowers journalists with knowledge, tools and funding to strengthen journalism through practical innovation.