Most people tune into the news for weather, sports, and happenings around the local residence. Few people realize the impact however that exposure to crime on the news can have on the public. While there are good news stories and portrayals of kindness and selflessness, there is also an inordinate amount of crime on the news with stories often told in graphic nature. Here are three ways the evening news and broadcast violence can cause more harm than good.
1.) Effects on Children- Many parents will go to great lengths to make sure their children do not view television shows with wild depictions of violence. Fewer parents however exercise the same caution when it comes to the evening news. Indeed, the news depicts images of children being starved and beaten and women being murdered and raped. Often these cases happen in the same area the children live only adding to the fear they may have from this exposure.
2.) Ideas For Other Criminals- Many criminals addicted to drugs are willing to do anything to get them. When the evening news broadcasts instances in which pharmacies are held up for pain medication pills or corner stores are robbed and the offender is never caught, it gives other criminals the idea that they may be able to get away with it too. The end result is an increase in crime instead of just public awareness.
3.) Makes Violence Seem Too Common- Indeed, the stigma attached to violent crime are lessened when they are glorified on the evening news. Rather than avoid it, potential criminals craving the spotlight may commit crimes just to be on TV.
