NCJ Number
140946
Journal
Criminology Australia Volume: 3 Issue: 3 Dated: (January-February 1992) Pages: 2-4,12
Date Published
1992
Length
4 pages
Annotation
The mass media, in its portrayal of crimes and crime victims, can cause a kind of secondary victimization, defined in criminology as negative effects from actions and events which follow the crime itself.
Abstract
While many media outlets in countries such as Australia provide crime reporting that is accurate and constructive, as well as beneficial publicity for victims and crimes, often offenders and their victims are portrayed in ways intended to attract excessive attention. Victims who become caught up in the media process run the risk of losing their autonomy and rights. Researchers and victims' rights groups have found that the mass media too often ignore the sensitivities and basic human rights of the individuals involved in their stories. Some procedures already exist in Australia to protect crime victims from media intrusion: courts can order nonpublication of aspects of proceedings, the Australian Journalists' Association has developed a code of practice, the Australian Press Council self-regulates the printed media, and the Australian Broadcasting Tribunal polices commercial broadcasters. State governments in Australia are exploring other approaches to monitoring the media, while simultaneously wrestling with the inherent issues of free speech and press. 5 notes and 15 references