NCJ Number
157531
Date Published
1995
Length
29 pages
Annotation
This background paper focuses on the role of the mass media in crime prevention, particularly in the context of the differing needs of developed and developing countries.
Abstract
The paper discusses the legislative and substantive background to the issue, and raises some general issues related to crime prevention versus crime control, the diversity of media systems, the potential of the media to influence crime prevention efforts, and the need for international collaboration in this area. Key issues related to the right to freedom of opinion and expression are discussed in terms of regulations and enforcement, perceptions of crime and the justice system, the design and evaluation of mass media campaigns, and media literacy. The paper discusses the need for governments, the media, and the public to balance their respective roles in effecting crime prevention and control. Some crime prevention efforts would be targeted toward specific audiences, i.e., children and youth, women, and the elderly. The paper ends with an examination of future directions at both the national and international levels. 61 notes and 1 appendix