Perceptions and Misconceptions of Organized Crime

• In Event: Poster Session 2

Abstract

Organized crime is one of the most portrayed and infamous criminal phenomena in society. Yet, the myths surrounding organized crime groups are numerous and exacerbated by popular culture. It seems much of the public’s knowledge and ideas about organized crime center from popular culture references about “Cosa Nostra” groups in the United States. Using a sample of undergraduate students, this study explores student’ perceptions and misconceptions of organized crime groups and how popular culture influences these perceptions.

Authors

• Aaron Ho, New Jersey City University

• Eric Lesneskie, Commonwealth University