31, January 2025

The Role of Media in Amplifying Crime Narratives: A Study of Public Opinion and Misinformation

Author(s): 1.Rupak Verma, 2.Anushka Bhardwaj

Authors Affiliations:

  1. Research Scholar, Department of Sociology, Central University of Haryana
  2. M.A, Department of Behavioural Forensics, National Forensic Sciences University

DOIs:10.2015/IJIRMF/202501008     |     Paper ID: IJIRMF202501008


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This article talks about how the media plays an important role in shaping how people view crime and the criminal justice system. Even though crime rates are generally going down, the media often focuses on shocking and violent cases, which can create fear and lead to distorted views among people. This study looks at how exposure to media influences people's views on crime, law enforcement, and community safety, especially for marginalized groups. We look at various studies that indicate that extended exposure to crime-related media can lead to a "mean world syndrome," where individuals perceive their surroundings as more perilous than they truly are. This trend affects different racial and socioeconomic groups in a significant way, complicating how media consumption relates to fear of crime. Additionally, the article discusses how media coverage influences policy decisions, highlighting that public concerns, often amplified by media portrayals, can pressure policymakers to implement stricter laws and penalties that might not tackle the root causes of crime. The findings show that it's important for media to report responsibly, providing balanced and trustworthy information to promote informed discussions about crime and justice. This analysis suggests that more research is needed on how media, public perception, and policy interact. It's important to ensure that society's reactions to crime are informed by accurate information instead of fear.

Crime Reporting, Fear of Crime, Criminal Justice System, Media Influence, Public Perception.

Rupak Verma, Anushka Bhardwaj (2025), “The Role of Media in Amplifying Crime Narratives: A Study of Public Opinion and Misinformation”, International Journal for Innovative Research in Multidisciplinary Field, ISSN(O): 2455-0620, Vol-11, Issue-1, Pp.48-52, Available on –   https://www.ijirmf.com/    DOIs:10.2015/IJIRMF/202501008

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