NCJ Number
160195
Date Published
1992
Length
6 pages
Annotation
The constant portrayal of gun violence in television programming both contributes to and is a reflection of America's obsession with guns and its high rate of gun-related violence; TV gun violence must be reduced if the Nation is to reduce violent crime.
Abstract
TV programming creates drama through life-and-death situations and violent conflicts between good guys and bad guys who usually resolve their conflict with guns. Television should fulfill its obligation of portraying the real-life consequences and suffering caused by violent injury and death inflicted on others. It should also focus on the resolution of conflict through nonviolent methods. Violence on television can plant the seeds of violence and retribution in the lives of those who watch and are tempted to identify with the violent characters. The distinction between what is right and wrong is difficult enough without having television glorify those who use their handguns to perform heroic deeds of vigilantism. A number of TV dramas and news programs have sought to dramatize the effects of violence and the use of firearms, and their efforts are to be lauded. The more youth can be exposed to nonviolent means of resolving conflict and achieving goals, the more likely they are to adopt these behavioral methods in their own lives.