Much of the general public’s knowledge concerning serial homicide is a product of sensationalized and stereotypical depictions of it in the news and entertainment media. Colorful story lines are written to pique the interest of audiences, not to paint an accurate picture of serial murder.
By focusing on the larger-than-life media images of socially constructed “celebrity monsters,” the public becomes captivated by the stylized presentation of the criminals rather than the reality of their crimes. Media stereotypes and exaggeration create myths and great distortions in the public consciousness regarding the true dynamics and patterns of serial murder in the U.S.
Because these crimes are called “serial killings” I believe that the public may think those crimes account for a large number of crimes in our nation but according to FBI statistics, serial killings account for only 1% of all murders. …show more content…
In part due to what is presented in book or film. Whether people like to admit or not, crime draws their interest and attention. I for one, will admit that I have a growing interest and fascination with crime and the perpetrators. Before undertaking a degree in criminal justice, I was interested in both true and fictional crime. We are informed daily about crime on the news on television and in newspapers. It has become apparent to me that crime is explored in intricate, if not exaggerated detail. Moreover, the offenders are also portrayed by the media. I am significantly fascinated by the portrayals of the criminal character and the coverage murderers and serial killers receive from the media. We don’t mind paying money due to our fascination with trauma, violence and
By focusing on the larger-than-life media images of socially constructed “celebrity monsters,” the public becomes captivated by the stylized presentation of the criminals rather than the reality of their crimes. Media stereotypes and exaggeration create myths and great distortions in the public consciousness regarding the true dynamics and patterns of serial murder in the U.S.
Because these crimes are called “serial killings” I believe that the public may think those crimes account for a large number of crimes in our nation but according to FBI statistics, serial killings account for only 1% of all murders. …show more content…
In part due to what is presented in book or film. Whether people like to admit or not, crime draws their interest and attention. I for one, will admit that I have a growing interest and fascination with crime and the perpetrators. Before undertaking a degree in criminal justice, I was interested in both true and fictional crime. We are informed daily about crime on the news on television and in newspapers. It has become apparent to me that crime is explored in intricate, if not exaggerated detail. Moreover, the offenders are also portrayed by the media. I am significantly fascinated by the portrayals of the criminal character and the coverage murderers and serial killers receive from the media. We don’t mind paying money due to our fascination with trauma, violence and