Media's Impact on Public Perception of Crime
The media plays a crucial role in shaping public perception of crime, often leading to significant societal impacts. This page explores various ways in which media representations influence public understanding and reactions to criminal activities.
Moral Panic and Exaggeration
Media representation can cause moral panic, where the public reacts disproportionately to sensationalized news. Stanley Cohen's research on the 'Mods vs Rockers' rivalry in the 1960s exemplifies this phenomenon.
Example: Cohen found that despite media portrayal of widespread violence and "decay of society," the actual disturbance was minimal, with most participants unaffiliated with either group.
Shifting Public Concerns
Media focus can dramatically shift public concerns about different types of crimes over time.
Highlight: Recent terrorist attacks in London, Manchester, and Barcelona in 2017 led to increased public focus on terrorism, affecting behavior and attitudes.
This shift in focus has led to changes in government and police priorities, raised threat levels, and unfortunately, a rise in Islamophobia.
Crime Trend Perceptions
The media influence on crime perception trends often contradicts actual crime statistics.
Example: While media often portrays crime as increasing, the Crime Survey of England and Wales (2017) showed that in some locations, crime was actually decreasing.
This discrepancy highlights the media's influence on criminal cases and public perception, with studies suggesting only about 30% of media coverage is accurate.
Impact on Fear and Behavior
Media consumption significantly affects public fear of crime.
Highlight: Research shows that people who read tabloids or consume high levels of TV express greater fears of leaving their homes alone or at night and have increased concern about becoming crime victims.
Response to Major Events
Media representation of significant crimes can lead to widespread responses and policy changes.
Example: The London riots in 2011 spread to other cities partly due to media coverage and social media encouragement.
Policy and Priority Changes
Major crime events, as represented in the media, can lead to significant policy shifts.
Example: The 9/11 attacks resulted in the Counter Terrorism Act (2008) and increased airport security, affecting travel, education, and civil rights.
Criminal Stereotyping
Media portrayals can lead to the stereotyping of certain groups as criminals.
Example: In the UK, youth are often portrayed as juvenile delinquents in gangs, leading to increased mistrust, anger, and fear towards them.
