The Influence of Social Media on Crime and Criminal Justice Perception: A Study through a Survey

• In Event: Media and social construction of crime II

Abstract

The role of the media in shaping public opinion on crime and crime policy remains a subject of ongoing debate, primarily driven by the popularisation of social media. These platforms, characterized by their unique features and dynamics, have significantly transformed the communication landscape, emerging as one of the primary information medium. Nevertheless, both the phenomena of disinformation and polarization are pivotal in comprehending the impact of these platforms on public opinion, particularly in the realms of criminal law, justice, and crime. Some studies caution that discussions on these issues within social networks often involve ideologically opposed groups, leading to simplified content that tends to be more political than legal. Consequently, the objective of this study is to gain insight into how social networks influence perceptions of crime and the criminal justice system. To achieve this, a survey was conducted among adults residing in Spain. The survey encompassed inquiries about the use, exposure, and participation in social networks, perceptions of the rising crime rates, punitive attitudes, and opinions on specific criminal measures, among other aspects. Additionally, the study places emphasis on the legal modifications that certain specific crimes have undergone in recent years in Spain, sparking public debates on social networks. Finally, as a result of the quantitative data collected, the study aims to answer the question of whether perceptions of crime and the criminal justice system vary according to the use and participation of social networks by the population.

Author

• Raquel Botía López, Miguel Hernández University