The relationship between media portrayals and crime: Perceptions of fear of crime among citizens

Abstract

Fear of crime has been an area of increasing concern in criminological research in recent years. This is a study of (1) the relationship between media portrayals of crime and the prevalence of fear of crime, and (2) the key demographic correlates of fear of crime in the study community. The study resulted in three key findings. Results indicate several weak but positive relationships between media influence and fear of crime. Theoretical, research, and policy implications are discussed.