The word 'press'

[Ola2705]

I have to write an essay on American press but I'm confused because I don't really know what the word press refers to nowadays - is it only the traditional press such as printed magazines and newspapers, or should I also refer to the Internet, television and radio?

[Raymott]

Originally Posted by Ola2705

I have to write an essay on American press but I'm confused because I don't really know what the word press refers to nowadays - is it only the traditional press such as printed magazines and newspapers, or should I also refer to the Internet, television and radio?

"The press" refers to printed material. The other things are "media", which includes the press. Columnists for online versions of newspapers could probably also be counted as part of the press.
That's my understanding.

[Ouisch]

In AmE, "press" can refer to newspaper, magazine, TV, and radio reporters. (In fact, now that TMZ and Perez Hilton have gained mainstream popularity, you can probably include certain bloggers as "press.") When, for example, the President gives a press conference, there are representatives from every medium there - TV, newspapers, etc. Quite often certain articles will clarify the reportage and describe an event or situation being covered by the "mainstream press," which means that thus far only the major newspapers and magazines have covered the story.

[Raymott]

Originally Posted by Ola2705

I have to write an essay on American press but I'm confused because I don't really know what the word press refers to nowadays - is it only the traditional press such as printed magazines and newspapers, or should I also refer to the Internet, television and radio?

It might be advisable to ask your teacher (or the relevant authority) what they mean by "the press". That is what I would do.