Answering your last question, "Everything!"
I've said it before, and I'm sure I'll say it again. It's OK to get research points from the media. But, don't take it as gospel. If I read a story about something which I think is important, I'll read at least 2-3 more stories on it. If everyone says the same things (in different ways), then I usually assume it's somewhat accurate. But, when the facts get distorted, then I'll know it's fishy.
Here's a quick way. Go to Fox News and read a story. Then go over the MSNBC and read the same story. Compare the two, throwing out everything that doesn't appear in both versions. The stuff that's left will be the facts.
Know the facts, then make up your own damn mind.