Stereotyping Online? Internet News, Social Media, and the Racial Typification of Crime

• In Event: Media Representations of Victims and Offenders

Abstract

Prior research suggests that traditional news consumption influences racial stereotyping. Yet, less is known how more contemporary forms of media, such as online media consumption, may impact attitudes related to the racial typification of offenders. Using a sample of young adults, the current study examines (1) the relationship between various types of online media consumption and racial typification of crime and (2) whether these relationships vary based on key audience characteristics. Findings and directions for future research in this area are discussed.

Authors

• Jonathan Intravia, Ball State University

• Justin Tyler Pickett, University at Albany, SUNY

• Kevin T. Wolff, John Jay College of Criminal Justice