The Public's View Of Terrorism In Their Communities As Related To Media-viewing Habits

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to analyze the beliefs and behaviors of criminology and communications students in regards to general media and terrorism media exposure, as well as fear of terrorism. It was conducted using a survey, which concentrated on the participants’ media-viewing habits; perceptions of current terrorism trends; fear of terrorism; viewer characteristics; and demographic information. Results revealed more frequent media exposure among communications students than among criminology students. Criminology students were more likely to believe another terrorist attack is likely in the United States, while being less fearful of such an attack on a personal level; communication students were more likely to be fearful on a personal level, but were less inclined to believe that the United States will suffer another terrorist attack. Further differences between the groups regarding viewer characteristics and fear of terrorism were also found.