Should Violent Crime Coverage Be Banned?

A SAMPLE OF AN IELTS, PTE OR TOEFL ESSAY.

A Recent Qn: Media coverage of violent crime frightens people and encourages criminals. Some people say it should be banned from newspapers and TV programs.

To what extend do you agree or disagree?

The role media in reporting violent crime has sparked intense debate, the world over. While some argue that media coverage should be banned, citing its impact on frightening people and encourage criminals, I partially disagree.

On the one hand, excessive media coverage of violent crime can indeed perpetuate fear and anxiety among the public. Sensationalized reporting can create a distorted perception of reality, making people believe that crime is more prevalent than it actually is. Moreover, glorifying criminals or their acts can potentially inspire young minds, who seem to be impulsive rather than being objective.

On the other hand, banning media coverage of violent crime seems to be not a viable solution. The media plays a crucial role in informing public in general about potential threats and promoting awareness about crime prevention. Responsible reporting can also facilitate community engagement, encouraging witnesses to come forward and facilitating police investigations.

Instead of a blanket ban, media outlets should adopt responsible reporting practices, avoiding sensationalism and prioritizing factual accuracy. Additionally, governments and law enforcement agencies should work with the media to provide context and promote public awareness campaigns.

By striking a balance between informed reporting and responsible communication, the negative impacts of media coverage can be minimised while maintaining its essential role in informing the public. Therefore, I partially disagree with the statement.

You can also read: DOES THE VIOLENCE IN MARCO & the much-hyped EMPURAN instigate youngsters to engage in VIOLENT CRIMES?