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Abstract

The aim of this literature review is to identify and assess the ethical issues within the true crime genre and evaluate the potential societal benefits to determine the overall impacts of true crime. Currently, the true crime genre is soaring in popularity with millions of users consuming real-life accounts of criminal investigations, through books, television series, podcasts and more. Despite its success, the genre has been accountable for a variety of ethical issues, including its impacts on and exploitation of victims, victim-blaming and the promotion of harmful stereotypes. Although, some content within the genre negates these issues and instead produces societal benefits, particularly in terms of advocacy and justice. This study found that whilst a majority of true crime content lacks consideration towards these ethical issues and perpetuates them, some content which is focused on advocating for victims and providing an informative, accurate narrative has the opposite effect. Thus, true crime content which is carefully, morally constructed and advocacy-led provides the benefits of education, influence on criminal justice reforms, advocacy for victims and promotion of feminist
principles.

Course: Criminology and Forensic Studies - BSc (Hons) - C2039F

Date Deposited: 2024-11-20

URI/permalink: https://library.port.ac.uk/dissert/dis14521.html