The Impact of Crime Programming: Promoting Crime or Giving Ideas?

Crimes, whether they are reported in news broadcasts, television shows, or reality TV, are a common occurrence. But do these depictions of crime inspire more criminal behavior or merely provide ideas for viewers?

Personal Perspectives on Crime Shows

Many individuals who have spent time in prison have a particular affinity for crime TV shows. For them, these programs are a form of entertainment that reflects their lives and experiences. Some even argue that TV shows set them on a path towards criminal behavior. It is often said, 'most prisons are universities for criminals, where they graduate and become respectable pillars of their community.' However, this is not the reality for all. Certain individuals, like golfers, manage to avoid incarceration thanks to their influential networks, such as connections with judges and lawyers.

Media Ethics and Mass Shootings

After recent mass shootings, various agencies, including news organizations, have taken steps to avoid naming the arrested suspects. The reasoning behind this policy is to prevent publicizing the shooter's identity from encouraging others to emulate their actions. This practice supports the idea that reporting on crime can indeed inspire criminal behavior and 'give people ideas.' Hence, news organizations, and even some international agencies like the New Zealand Prime Minister, have opted to limit the dissemination of identifying information about suspects.

Case Studies

New Zealand PM's Policy: The New Zealand Prime Minister vowed never to mention the gunman's name in the aftermath of a shooting. In the official report, the suspect was named only once, and a photo was not included. Canadian News Network’s Decision: A Canadian news network refused to broadcast the name of a mass shooter in 2017, following a church shooting in Texas. FBI and Texas officials decided not to refer to the suspect by name, to prevent encouraging others to commit similar acts. Texas Officials' Approach: After a mass shooting in Texas in 2017, officials opted not to use the suspect's name. Their rationale was that by not glorifying the perpetrator, they could reduce the likelihood of copycat crimes.

Expert Perspectives on Reporting and Influence

While crime reports can certainly influence viewers, many experts argue that they do not necessarily cause non-criminals to commit crimes. Reporting is about disseminating information, and withholding such information would mean withholding critical data that might help apprehend and hold accountable those involved.

Discussion and Conclusion

The debate over whether crime programming promotes crime or merely gives ideas is complex. On one hand, there is evidence that naming suspects and publicizing details can inspire others to commit similar actions. On the other hand, the right to information and the ethics of journalism must be balanced against the potential risks. As consumers of media, it is important to critically assess the impact of crime content and form our own informed opinions.

What are your thoughts on the role of crime TV shows and news reports in fostering criminal behavior? Share your insights in the comments below.