MEDIA REPRESENTATIVE OF CRIME AND IT EFFECT ON PUBLIC PERCEPTION AMONGST PEOPLE IN CALABAR METROPOLIS

ABSTRACT This study investigates how media representation of crime affects public perception in Calabar Metropolis, Nigeria. It aims to explore the predominant themes and narratives used by local media, and how these shape residents' attitudes toward crime, safety, and law enforcement. The study employs a qualitative research design, specifically using focus group discussions (FGDs) to gather in-depth insights from residents of Calabar Metropolis. The participants were selected based on their regular engagement with local media. The data were analyzed thematically to identify patterns related to media framing and public perception. The study found that media outlets in Calabar tend to sensationalize violent crime, leading to heightened public fear and a distorted perception of crime prevalence. This sensationalism often results in negative stereotypes of certain neighborhoods and demographic groups. Additionally, socio-cultural and economic factors significantly influence how residents consume and interpret crime-related media content. The study concludes that while media representation can raise awareness about crime, it often does so at the cost of social cohesion by fostering fear and mistrust within communities. It recommends that media outlets adopt more balanced reporting practices and that community leaders promote media literacy to help residents critically assess the information they receive. These strategies could enhance public discourse on crime and support community resilience.