NCJ Number
137811
Date Published
1992
Length
198 pages
Annotation
This analysis of television crime drama moves criminology into new and unexplored terrain. The author demonstrates the centrality of television crime on key issues in criminology and draws important conclusions regarding the subject of television's influence.
Abstract
The book explores the relationship between watching popular "cop shows" and the intensity of public fear about crime. The analysis extends to the effects of television violence, the prevalence of certain predominant images and stories and their appeal to the audience, and the relationship of these factors to the broader social and political agenda. Social theory, social psychology, cultural and media studies, narrative theory, and criminology are used to provide insight on the ways in which images of crime, law enforcement, and punishment are incorporated into the expressive and emotive characteristics of contemporary culture.