The power of mass media is often underestimated. When used properly, the media can strengthen, educate and uplift society. When used the wrong way, mass media can divide and cripple society. The way in which some media (too many) cover crime has had subtle but devastating effects on people. Sensationalizing crime and violence contributes to the following things :

Makes people feel scared and powerless

Constantly bombarding people with news of violent crimes develops a subconscious fear within them. When this continues over a certain period of time, the fear becomes extreme. Fear breeds violence. If the media keeps giving the impression that violent crimes are the only things happening, an increasing number of people seek to own weapons (usually firearms) in order to defend themselves in the event of an attack. This is when the downward spiral begins.

Having more firearms around increases the risk of having accidental shootings. Unless you have been living under a rock for the past 20 years, you must have heard of cases where children shot themselves accidentally while playing with their parents’ gun. In addition to that, a climate of extreme fear causes people’s conflict resolution skills to disappear quickly. Individuals reach out for their firearms quicker because of the “take him/her out before he/she takes me out” mindset.

Glorifies criminals

Attention is the most valuable and powerful thing that can be given to someone. When crime makes the headlines (especially when it is done repeatedly), criminals are empowered. Why should criminals be empowered and glorified? One can understand that journalists have a duty to inform people with regards to what goes on in society but there must be a balance between informing people and scaring them.

Discourages those who make positive contributions to society

The media’s dominant focus on crime sends the message that being a good citizen will not get you the attention you deserve. Youngsters can be very sensitive to this and it can lead some astray.

Repels investors (local and foreign)

How many people want to invest in a place that is perceived as a hotbed of crime and violence? Even the most adventurous investors will think twice about making such a high-risk investment. Furthermore, reduced investment leads to reduced development opportunities. Lack of development can often lead to crime. See what the media’s obsession with crime can lead to?

Constantly having crime on the front page of newspapers or in the top television news stories is completely useless. It only leads to the proliferation of crime in the long run. It makes crime become the rule of society as opposed to it being the exception. While too many media houses have chosen to dedicate most of their resources on crime coverage because it sells, the public has a responsibility with regards to being selective about what it consumes. Make it a priority to look for material that improves your life. Consuming crime stories all the time only drains people of the energy they could have used to prevent crime.