Media coverage influences the public's perception of the criminal justice system and the policy agendas of those within the system. This often results in changes within the operational structure of the police, courts, and corrections centers. These changes include the firing of employees, the initiation of internal investigations, and the privatization of services. Respond to the following questions, and support your positions using credible research:
Assignment Guidelines
- How is the criminal justice system portrayed in the media? Explain.
- What impact does the media have on a viewer's perception as to the system's efficacy in dealing with crime? Explain.
- Does coverage of sensationalistic and violent crime create fear among the general public? Explain.
- Does this fear influence criminal justice policy attitudes? Explain in detail.
- Is there a correlation between gender, education, income, age, and perceived neighborhood problems and police effectiveness in dealing with crime? Explain in detail.