What is a common belief regarding the media's portrayal of crime?

The belief that the media creates a misconception about crime is rooted in the way crime is reported and portrayed in various outlets. Media coverage often emphasizes sensational incidents, particularly violent crime, which can lead to public perceptions that crime is more prevalent or dangerous than it actually is.

This misrepresentation can skew public understanding and fear of crime, as the media may focus on rare but shocking cases rather than providing a balanced view of statistical data on crime trends. For example, while overall crime rates may be declining, media narratives focused on specific violent incidents can create a false sense of insecurity among the public.

Additionally, the portrayal of crime often lacks context, such as socioeconomic factors or the realities of crime prevention and statistics, further misleading audiences. This phenomenon is supported by research that shows a disconnect between media portrayals and actual crime rates, emphasizing the role of the media in shaping perceptions rather than accurately reflecting reality.