News Media may have to rethink reporting of violent crime and incidents of aggression.
It may be a bit of a bit of a reach to suggest that the news medias’ reporting of violent crime and incidents of aggression in the community are models for others to copy.
Violent crimes and incidents of violence seem to be a growing problem in our society today and news media reporting these events may be exacerbating the problem. Is it really necessary that the public be informed about every or any incidents involving violence that occurs in the community. It may be news but is it of value to report it? Why?
There may be justification for reporting many of the media reports of aggression: warning to members of the community to take precautions seems about the only justification of value. Home invasions and smash and grab retail robberies may fit the ticket but is reporting this information warranted? Reporting these incidents could motivate others to commit similar crimes.Those with a criminal bent in the community may get ideas from these media reports.
Perhaps the media needs to re-evaluate the value and consider the weight of the incidents before jumping into reporting about them. Consider the seriousness of the incident, its frequency, its location among other factors. Should/could police departments be consulted about the need to report such incidents?
Reporting these incidents may not increase the safety of the community. Rather, they may increase the risk of it being repeated, copied by others.
Perhaps the news media needs to re-evaluate the need and value of reporting examples of violence and aggression in the community.
