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Outline two ways in which media representations of crime may not reflect reality. - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 1 - 2020 - Paper 3
Question 1
Outline two ways in which media representations of crime may not reflect reality.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Outline two ways in which media representations of crime may not reflect reality. - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 1 - 2020 - Paper 3
Step 1
Violent and sexual crimes are over-reported
Answer
Media reports often depict violent and sexual crimes as more prevalent than they actually are. These types of crime represent a significantly smaller percentage in official statistics or victim surveys. This discrepancy can lead public perception to overestimate the frequency of such crimes, potentially instilling a heightened sense of fear within communities.
Step 2
Under-reporting property crime
Answer
There is a tendency in media narratives to under-report property crimes, which can lead to a distortion of reality. Many crimes go unreported to the police, and this underrepresentation translates to a skewed perception, leaving the public unaware of the true extent of property crime.