Social Analysis

 Media platforms often profit ten fold from exploiting the suffering of victims and their families by transforming real-life tragedies and crimes into entertainment products that captivate audiences. This commodification of criminal narratives can desensitize audiences to the true scope of the crimes depicted and trivialize the experiences of those affected. This includes victims, families, and criminals.

Certain demographics, such as racial minorities and marginalized communities, are disproportionately represented as criminals or victims chiefly involved in these narratives. This portrayal can further agendas of harmful stereotypes and contribute to the stigmatization of already marginalized groups. This leads to societal concern and a connection of danger and suspicion with these individuals in society.

Glorification of violence and criminal behavior in the sensationalization of true crime media can have detrimental effects on society, particularly on young and impressionable individuals. Research has shown a potentially substantial link between exposure to violent crime media and desensitization to violence. In many cases this leads to an increased tolerance for aggression not only in the media, but also in a real world environment. Additionally, the romanticization of criminals and their actions can glamorize violence and normalize deviant behavior.