Criminogenic medias
Discuss whether you feel that some types of media (films, books, electronic video games, for example) are more criminogenic than others or whether some content is more dangerous than other content.
Discuss the differences between cultures that appear to have large amounts of criminogenic media but small levels of copycat crime, such as Japan. Identify several countries that have higher levels of both, such as the United States. What might change in a culture to increase the copying of media portrayed crimes?
Why do you feel that the media often portrays law enforcement in a poor light rather than for their positive attributes?
How do crime shows portray police work? Is this helpful or harmful to the criminal justice system? Give examples.
Discuss how a trial by jury is a small-scale example of social constructionism.
Sample Answer
Whether some types of media are more criminogenic than others
There is some evidence to suggest that some types of media may be more criminogenic than others. For example, studies have shown that exposure to violent video games can increase aggressive behavior in children and adolescents. However, it is important to note that correlation does not equal causation. Just because two things are correlated does not mean that one causes the other. It is possible that children who are already predisposed to violence are more likely to both play violent video games and engage in aggressive behavior.
Another factor to consider is the content of the media. Some media, such as violent video games, may be more likely to lead to copycat crimes than other media, such as horror movies. This is because violent video games often depict realistic violence that is presented in a way that is exciting and gratifying. Horror movies, on the other hand, often depict violence in a more stylized and unrealistic way.