Myths and Reality of Crime

Myths and Reality of Crime

Introduction

Crimes and unlawful activities have always been a part of every society. Even in powerful and established societies like that of United States crimes and criminals have always been present. Therefore, it is important that the people, as being a part of society should know the truths about crimes. Observations have shown that a prominent percentage of the general public is usually unaware about the realities and facts associated with crimes. This lack of knowledge about such crucial issues should not be taken for granted. These misconceptions about crimes, criminals and granting of justice are commonly attributed to the fact that most people try to gain information from sources like internet, televisions, documentaries etc. Although these are easily accessible sources of information, but they do not provide factual information. Moreover, it is also necessary that truth about every crime is known by the society members and just not only about those crimes that directly affect them.

Discussion

The increasing rate of delinquency in America indicates that it is high time that the myths and realities about crimes are sorted out. Many reasons contribute to crime myths, such as media, novels, public official's statements (Barkan & Bryjak, 2009). Media is widely accused off crime myths because it is seen that most of the crime reports broadcast are made dramatic in order to attract the public. This creates a myth about the gravity of the crime. People start believing that the crime was very violent and has had very adverse effects, although the reality is entirely different. This is so because the reality about the crime was not shown in the reports which lead to misconceptions in the public. Media also does not highlight the important facts about the incident rather it ...