Abstract

This study explores the C.S.I. effect in relation to its influence on criminal activity. Expansive research exists concerning the C.S.I. Effect, but very little pertains to the influence it has on individuals' perception of crime and their ability to get away with it. The study explores whether heavy viewers of crime show dramas such as Law & Order and C.S.I. display increased confidence in their ability to commit and get away with a crime. Essentially, this study explores whether these crime television shows are not only entertainment, but also may serve as guides on how to commit crimes. Participants in the study were University of Central Florida students. Participants read a description of a crime scene, and provided judgments from the criminal's point of view. They also completed the Crime Drama Viewing Questionnaire and the Levenson Psychopathy Scale in order to explore the possible correlation between reported confidence in "getting away" with criminal activity, type of television viewing, and psychopathy in participants. Using a correlational design, the relation between heavy and light crime drama viewing and criminal activity decision making was examined. The results of this study add to knowledge about how television crime drama potentially increases criminal confidence and competency in criminal behavior.

Notes

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Thesis Completion

2014

Semester

Fall

Advisor

Mottarella, Karen

Degree

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

College

College of Sciences

Department

Psychology

Subjects

Dissertations, Academic -- Sciences; Sciences -- Dissertations, Academic

Location

UCF Palm Bay

Format

PDF

Identifier

CFH0004723

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Length of Campus-only Access

None

Document Type

Honors in the Major Thesis

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Included in

Psychology Commons

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