to want to turn this work down as I'm paranoid about my children

[incompletesentence]

I've namechanged for this.

I am a journalist (of sorts) on a freelance contract. I've been asked to work on a story which is a kind of investigative piece of a criminal nature.

I won't be required to do the actual uncovering, investigating, but I will be required to write about it.

I don't want to do it. I have 3 small children and actually want an easy life, I don't want to have my name associated with exposing some kind or underworld organised crime ring.

I really want to tell my employer that I don't want it - but risk losing my contract. I feel like such a coward.

Can you come and tell me that you would do the same thing.

What a horrible situation to be in and not one that many of us have experience of. However, if I were I think i would feel exactly the same as you. It's hardly something you can "undo" once you've done it if you know what I mean. Your kids come first, of course they do and you are not being paranoid.

Can't you ask to write it under a pseudonym? sell it your employer as you might want to write about related articles in the future so want to keep your anonymity?

Can you use a pseudonym?

Actually I would just say 'I'm writing this under a pseudonym' - and not expect them to query it. I think lots of people do this.

That's a good point, which I could do. I think my paranoia has extended even further than that but that might be a good compromise.

I think I might be honest with him about my fears. This can't be the first time this has happened and someone has had the same concerns.

I think I've just worked my way into a bit of a state overnight.

sorry, there was a lot of 'I think' in that sentence.

I'm supposed to be able to write

I would.. YA definitely NBU.

Surely your boss would take into account your feelings? Like, conscientious objection?

Ask your boss if you would be expected to work on a piece about, say, violent rascist gangs if you were (are?) of ethnic origin?

You have the right to at least voice your objections.

I'd run a mile!

YANBU

Part of my academic research involves organised crime, and I do write about criminality publicly, but I am not exposing anyone, just providing analysis. I have had to think a lot about what kind of jobs i'm willing to take when I finish my degree and now that I have a child I'm much less inclined to do anything that might involve retribution.

That said, it does depend on what kind of organised crime you're talking about. Chechen mafia? Hell no. Bank fraud? Hmm.

I'm sure you don't want to say here but if you'd like to PM me I'd be happy to share any advice I've gotten from colleagues in the past, in terms of risk.

Could you write under a pseudonym?

What does your contract say about refusing jobs?

You are not a coward.
Turn it down and wait for something less dodgy to come along.

I'd insist on publishing it under a pseudonym. No reason at all why this shouldn't happen; your family will be safely anonymous and you'll still get paid.

Go for a pseudonym, you cannot be left worrying about a threat to your family, real or perceived. Making sure your family are safe is not being a coward it is being responsible.

I am currently living with someone who has panic alarms in her house due to threats to her life and that of her family due to a court case she is part of. Not the same situation as yours but i can tell you it is a terrifying position to be in. If you think that you may experience any backlash from the work you are being asked to do it is more than fair to demand anonymity or refuse to do it.

YANBU. I've refused to involve myself in certain issues in the past for fear of retribution towards my child. Its much easier when its just you but your family has to come first

Any chance of getting a generic 'news desk' or 'all reporters' type headline? Do you want your name on it at all?

Definitely take it if you can, sounds really interesting - I'm sure you can find a solution that works for you. (But YANBU if you turn it down!)

I wouldn't do it. Remember Veronica Guerin.

yanbu. no ideas what to do, but yanbu

You wouldnt see me for dust.....